Hillcrest Energy Technologies Ltd (CSE:HEAT, OTCQB:HLRTF) has announced several strategic initiatives as it advances its proprietary Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) technology towards commercialization, including the establishment of global Centers of Excellence and leadership changes.
The company said to streamline its operations by designating key facilities as Centers of Excellence.
The Vancouver lab as Grid Center of Excellence will focus on power conversion technologies for grid applications, including renewable energy integration, energy storage, and data centers.
"The Vancouver Center of Excellence represents a significant step forward in our mission to innovate and deliver solutions that meet the evolving needs of the global energy market," Hillcrest CEO Don Currie said in a statement.
"By centralizing expertise in grid applications, we will drive further advancements in our power conversion solutions for renewable energy, energy storage, and data center applications."
In Germany, Systematec GmbH’s facility will continue to lead the adoption of Hillcrest’s ZVS technology in electric vehicles.
The addition of a firmware developer with extensive expertise in field-programmable gate array (FPGA) control systems has allowed the company to expand its automotive solutions, incorporating both the existing microcontroller-based systems and the newly developed FPGA-based control system.
The company also announced the appointment of seasoned executive Nad Karim as vice president of business development.
Karim brings over 20 years of expertise from industries such as electric vehicle batteries, semiconductor IP, and advanced manufacturing.
His background includes co-founding Tamba Networks, acquired by Marvell in 2022, and Sakuu, a solid-state battery innovator recognized as one of TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions of 2024.
"Nad's exceptional ability to connect innovative technologies with high-value opportunities will be instrumental in positioning Hillcrest as a leader in power conversion technologies," Currie said.
"His proven global success navigating dynamic industries will help us extend our reach and maximize the impact of our disruptive ZVS technology."
Karim expressed excitement at joining the company. “With its groundbreaking power conversion technology, the company is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the accelerating global transition to electrification and renewable energy,” he said. “I look forward to contributing my experience and network to open new doors and drive sustainable growth."
Further, Ari Berger has stepped down as chief technology officer to allow new senior engineering talent to lead the next phase of product development.
"I'm excited about the opportunity to work alongside the new engineers joining the Hillcrest team,” Berger said. “Their deep expertise in product deployment, industry standards, and regulatory compliance will be invaluable as we mature our technology and deliver it to customers.”
Currie concluded: "The establishment of our global Centers of Excellence and the continued evolution of our leadership team highlight our commitment to operational excellence and positioning Hillcrest as a leader in the energy transition.”