FASTER, a Korean startup developing silicon carbide (SiC)-based smart grid solutions, has secured seed funding from the “CNTTech–DB Dream Big Investment Association,” jointly formed by CNTTech and DB Capital.

The global power industry is rapidly shifting from traditional silicon (Si) to SiC-based power semiconductors. Compared to conventional silicon, SiC reduces power loss by 50%, offers three times higher thermal conductivity, and enables compact device design—making it a core material for next-generation power infrastructure, including EV chargers, solar inverters, and energy storage systems (ESS).

However, Korea’s SiC technology self-sufficiency rate remains below 10%, with most key modules still imported from China and Europe.

In this context, FASTER has independently designed and developed a domestic K-SiC power module and successfully commercialized a PLC-based SECC (Supply Equipment Communication Controller) module—an essential component for EV charging safety. FASTER’s SiC power module achieves 97.5% power conversion efficiency and meets EMC Class-B certification, demonstrating its technological maturity.

The company also addresses the rising social concern over EV charging fires. Conventional slow chargers often lack SECC modules, allowing residual current flow after charging completion—leading to overheating and fire risks.

FASTER has developed one of the world’s smallest SECC modules, capable of instantly cutting off power upon charging completion and enabling remote monitoring to prevent fires. This technology is expected to benefit significantly from Korea’s 2025 policy mandating SECC installation in all smart slow chargers.

Choi Hyun-soon, Team Leader at CNTTech, stated, “Given Korea’s severe SiC technology gap, FASTER stands out as a company setting the direction for domestic power infrastructure independence. This investment carries strategic importance beyond financial value, and we plan to support the company’s TIPS program participation and global expansion.”

Kang Seok-min, Team Leader at DB Capital, added, “SiC-based smart grid technology is gaining attention as a key enabler of next-generation power networks in terms of energy efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. We see strong growth potential in FASTER’s approach.”

FASTER CEO Lee Jung-hyung remarked, “SiC power semiconductors are a core technology Korea must secure, yet domestic reliance on imports has been unavoidable until now. Through this investment, we aim to strengthen the competitiveness of K-SiC technology and lead the development of a smart grid ecosystem in Korea.”