Clifford Chance advises U.S. Department of Commerce on US$250 million CHIPS R&D award to I-Pulse for silicon carbide semiconductor development

Global law firm Clifford Chance advised the U.S. Department of Commerce CHIPS Program Office in connection with its US$250 million CHIPS and Science Act research and development award to I-Pulse to advance next-generation silicon carbide semiconductor technology.

The definitive agreement, announced on June 25, 2026, provides funding to support the development of novel silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors designed to operate in high-temperature, high-frequency and high-power environments.

Under the agreement, I-Pulse will work with federal laboratories, universities and specialized manufacturers to develop next-generation SiC semiconductors for use in solid-state switches capable of operating under extreme conditions. These technologies are expected to have applications across a range of sectors, including energy, advanced manufacturing, medical technologies and emerging fusion-related systems.

In connection with the award, the Department of Commerce will receive a minority, non-controlling equity stake in I-Pulse.

The team advising on the transaction was led by Corporate partner Matthew Warner and Energy and Infrastructure partner Peter Hughes, with support from associates Jack Weymer and Anthony Conte.

Warner said, “We are pleased to have advised the Department of Commerce on this award and the related equity stake.  The award will promote continued US innovation and technology development in advanced microelectronics. The mandate reflects our ongoing involvement in advanced technology and strategic industrial policy.”

Clifford Chance also advised the Department on three CHIPS Act transactions in 2025 and most recently on an award to USAR of federal incentives under the CHIPS and Science Act