Ithaca-based MicroGen Systems has received a $1,200,000 grant from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) for the commercialization of its proprietary MEMS-based vibrational energy harvester technology.
MicroGen Systems’ MEMS-based vibrational energy harvesters generate energy to provide power for wireless and autonomous sensors. MEMS technology similar to integrated circuit technology can offer precise and accurate products that can be mass-produced at low cost. Product development is underway at the Cornell Nanoscale Science and Technology Facility situated on the Cornell University Campus in Ithaca. Cornell’s Energy Materials Center, emc2 is also assisting MicroGen in the product development.
MicroGen Systems will use this NYSERDA grant for commercializing the MEMS technology, introducing initial products, establishing business and strategic collaborations, extending customer applications, and starting production with a MEMS foundry. In consequence of this award, the company has hired three business and engineering experts from the MEMS industry to achieve the objectives of the grant and the company.
The MicroGen BOLT product line produces electrical energy by converting vibration taking place in every environment to power wireless radios and sensors that are used for monitoring and reducing energy consumption. MicroGen is designing MEMS energy harvesters for generating low-cost energy for military, industrial, commercial, consumer and residential applications.
MicroGen Systems had already received a grant worth $300,000 from NYSERDA in 2009. The company used the first NYSERDA grant to develop early prototypes that fulfilled both technology and project objectives, which include better power capability.
Source: http://www.microgensystems.com