As the world accelerates toward electrification and decarbonization, the need for efficient, scalable energy solutions has never been more urgent. Hillcrest Energy Technologies, a Vancouver-based clean technology innovator, is leading the charge with its proprietary Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) inverter technology. By slashing energy losses, reducing system costs, and enhancing performance, Hillcrest is transforming electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, renewable energy systems, and fast-charging infrastructure. This article explores Hillcrest’s mission, technology, strategic partnerships, and its pivotal role in shaping a sustainable energy future.
A Clean Tech Leader with a Clear Mission
Founded in 2006 as Hillcrest Petroleum Ltd., Hillcrest Energy Technologies rebranded in April 2021 to reflect its focus on advanced power conversion technologies and digital control systems. Headquartered in Vancouver, Canada, the company employs 15–20 professionals and is publicly traded on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE: HEAT), OTCQB Venture Market (HLRTF), and Frankfurt Stock Exchange (7HI). With a market capitalization of approximately $9.54 million as of June 6, 2025, Hillcrest is a small but ambitious player in the clean tech sector.
Hillcrest’s mission is to develop energy solutions that power a sustainable, electrified future from concept to commercialization. Its flagship ZVS technology delivers efficiencies up to 99.7%, offering significant financial and environmental benefits across e-mobility and grid-connected applications. “Our ZVS inverter technology is designed to unlock new levels of efficiency, performance, and grid stability,” says CEO Don Currie, emphasizing its cross-sector potential.
Zero Voltage Switching: A Technical Breakthrough
Hillcrest’s ZVS technology is a game-changer in power conversion. Inverters convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) using pulse width modulation (PWM), where electrical switches (MOSFETs or IGBTs) create bursts of current to mimic an AC sine wave. This AC signal powers EV motors or feeds electricity into the grid. However, traditional inverters incur switching losses—energy dissipated as heat during each switch transition—reducing efficiency and increasing thermal management costs.
How ZVS Works: A Visual Analogy
Picture an inverter as a metronome ticking to create a rhythm (the AC sine wave). Traditional inverters are like a metronome that jerks abruptly, wasting energy with each swing. Hillcrest’s ZVS technology is like a metronome that glides smoothly, minimizing energy loss. By ensuring switches operate at zero voltage before current flows, ZVS eliminates most switching losses, achieving efficiencies up to 99.7%. This is enabled by proprietary algorithms in micro-controllers, paired with next-generation silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors, which support high-frequency switching with minimal losses.
Hillcrest’s white papers and patents highlight key advantages:
- 30–70% Lower Switching Losses: ZVS outperforms competitors at high switching frequencies, reducing energy waste.
- Up to 15% Lower System Costs: High-quality AC signals (low ripple, harmonics, and EMI) allow downsizing of components like the DC link capacitor, which accounts for 21% of inverter weight, 14% of cost, and 30% of failures.
- Up to 13% Increased EV Range: Enhanced efficiency boosts energy utilization, extending vehicle range.
- Reduced Thermal Management Needs: Lower heat generation simplifies cooling systems, enhancing reliability.
- Wide Operating Range: ZVS maintains performance across diverse conditions, making it versatile for EVs, wind, solar, batteries, and fast-chargers.
These benefits stem from Hillcrest’s unique approach to soft switching, combining proprietary hardware and firmware to deliver next-generation performance.
A Single Platform for Multiple Applications
Hillcrest’s ZVS platform is designed as a modular, adaptable architecture, enabling rapid product development across:
- Electric Vehicles (EVs): Hillcrest’s 250 kW, 800V SiC traction inverter offers superior efficiency and performance. Testing with a European automotive manufacturer showed “substantial improvements and system-level cost savings,” boosting range by up to 13% and reducing production costs.
- Renewable Energy Systems: ZVS inverters enhance grid-connected solar farms and energy storage systems, improving power generation and stability. A recent article by Hillcrest emphasized its role in enhancing grid resilience as renewable adoption grows.
- Fast-Charging Infrastructure: In 2022, Hillcrest filed a patent for a simplified EV charging solution, addressing inefficiencies and potentially lowering costs for widespread adoption.
The global power inverter market, projected to reach $95 billion by 2028, underscores the demand for such innovations. Hillcrest’s four hardware patent applications provide a strong intellectual property moat, positioning it to capture a growing market share.
Strategic Partnerships and Global Expansion
Hillcrest’s growth is fueled by strategic collaborations and a focus on key markets like Europe, a leader in electrification. In 2025, Hillcrest signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Systematec GmbH, a German power electronics firm, to explore distribution agreements for ZVS inverters in the European automotive sector. This partnership leverages Systematec’s expertise and network to accelerate adoption among EV manufacturers.
Additionally, Hillcrest launched a technology evaluation project with a global Tier 1 automotive supplier, ranked among the top 15 by revenue, to assess ZVS integration into their inverter platforms. Initiated in March 2025, this project could lead to broader adoption if successful. Earlier collaborations, such as a 2022 MOU with a Tier 1 supplier for a 250 kW, 800V inverter integration through 2023, and a partnership with Hercules for e-mobility powertrains, demonstrate Hillcrest’s track record of industry trust.
Hillcrest’s membership in Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA) and participation in Project Arrow 2.0 further solidify its role in advancing electrification, particularly in North America. Presentations at events like the 2022 ELIV MarketPlace in Germany, where CTO Ari Berger showcased ZVS to automotive manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers, highlight Hillcrest’s growing global presence.
A Team Built for Success
Hillcrest’s small but expert team drives its innovation. In April 2025, Emanuel Serban, Ph.D., PEng, joined as a senior engineer, bringing over 20 years of experience in power electronics and a proven track record of commercializing technologies. Led by CEO Don Currie, COO Jamie Hogue, and CTO Ari Berger, the leadership team combines expertise in finance, operations, and technology development. This has guided Hillcrest’s transition from fossil fuels to clean tech, building a robust IP portfolio.
Financials and Market Position
As of June 6, 2025, Hillcrest’s stock (CSE: HEAT) trades at $0.10, down from a 52-week high of $0.47, with a market cap of $9.54 million. The company reported an earnings per share (EPS) of -0.12, reflecting its pre-revenue stage, with the next earnings date set for August 25, 2025. A $663,923 private placement closed in March 2025 supports R&D and global expansion, though a planned December 2024 placement was canceled.
Despite recent stock volatility (17% weekly volatility, higher than 75% of U.S. stocks), Hillcrest’s partnerships and IP portfolio suggest long-term potential. However, analysts note a “Strong Sell” signal based on technical indicators, reflecting short-term challenges typical of early-stage clean tech firms. Investors should conduct thorough due diligence, as highlighted in Hillcrest’s risk disclosures.
Cross-Checked Company Facts
To ensure accuracy, key facts have been verified:
- Incorporation and Location: Founded in 2006, headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.
- Stock Listings: CSE (HEAT), OTCQB (HLRTF), Frankfurt (7HI).
- Market Cap: $9.54 million as of June 6, 2025 (not $25 million as stated in February 2023).
- Employees: 15–20, consistent with small-scale R&D focus.
- Technology Focus: ZVS-based power conversion for EVs, renewables, and fast-charging, with four patent applications.
- Recent Developments: MOU with Systematec GmbH, Tier 1 supplier project, and Dr. Serban’s hiring confirmed for 2025.
Looking Ahead: A Catalyst for Change
Hillcrest is nearing commercialization, with ongoing discussions with leading automakers and suppliers. A recent YouTube video featuring CEO Don Currie highlighted breakthrough testing with a European OEM, signaling strong market interest. The company’s focus on grid stability, as noted in a June 2025 X post, positions its ZVS technology to meet rising demand for resilient renewable energy systems.
With global Centers of Excellence expanding and funding secured, 2025 is a pivotal year for Hillcrest. Its ZVS platform’s ability to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and improve reliability makes it a compelling solution for the $95 billion power inverter market.
Why Hillcrest Matters
Hillcrest Energy Technologies is more than a clean tech company—it’s a catalyst for the energy transition. By addressing inefficiencies in power conversion, Hillcrest is enabling EVs, renewables, and fast-charging infrastructure to scale effectively. Its ZVS technology delivers environmental and economic benefits, making sustainability a practical choice for industries and consumers alike.
For eco-conscious investors, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates, Hillcrest is a company to watch. Visit hillcrestenergy.tech for more details or track its stock performance on Yahoo Finance (HEAT.CN) or Yahoo Finance (HLRTF). Follow @HillcrestEnergy on X for real-time updates.
