The energy sector is evolving at a rapid pace, driven by the need for efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. In a recent QWIEME Talks session, Matthew Williams, CEO and Founder of IONATE, shared his insights on the challenges and breakthroughs shaping the industry. From the origins of IONATE to its groundbreaking Hybrid Intelligent Transformer (HIT), Williams highlighted how his company is revolutionising power systems worldwide.

The Birth of IONATE: A Journey from Idea to Innovation

Founded in 2019, just before the global challenges of the pandemic, IONATE emerged from Williams’ deep experience in electrical and control systems engineering. Having worked in energy-intensive industries such as mining, ports, and power stations, he recognised the limitations of traditional power systems.

"As the energy transition gained momentum, I saw that the existing hardware and software simply couldn’t scale efficiently to meet net-zero goals," Williams explained.

With this realisation, he embarked on a journey to develop new solutions that integrate cutting-edge hardware and software to modernise power distribution systems.

The Hybrid Intelligent Transformer: A Game Changer in Power Distribution

One of IONATE’s most significant contributions to energy modernisation is its Hybrid Intelligent Transformer (HIT). Traditionally, power grids rely on rigid, passive infrastructure, which is outdated, expensive, and prone to failure. Williams likens this to adding band-aid fixes on top of old systems, creating inefficiencies and complexity.

IONATE’s HIT offers a plug-and-play solution that integrates essential power control functions into one compact device, reducing the need for multiple outdated components.

Key Benefits of the HIT System:

✔ Real-time power monitoring – Providing instant insights into grid performance.
✔ Millisecond-level power flow control – Enabling precision voltage control, harmonic suppression, and reactive power management.
✔ More efficient and cost-effective – A streamlined system that eliminates unnecessary add-ons, reducing failure points and maintenance costs.

"We designed HIT like a Swiss Army knife—powerful, multifunctional, and reliable," Williams stated.

The Role of Digitalisation in Energy Transformation

Williams emphasised that digitalisation is the key to unlocking the next phase of the energy transition. At IONATE, they take a full-stack approach, combining hardware and software for end-to-end power management.

"You need hardware to capture information and serve as a control point, but software is essential to analyse and optimise energy flow in real time," he noted.

IONATE’s software allows utilities and businesses to visualise, optimise, and automate their power systems, ensuring smarter energy usage and enhanced sustainability.

Interoperability: The Future of Smart Grids

Williams strongly believes that collaboration is essential for tackling large-scale energy challenges. No single "silver bullet" technology will solve the world’s energy problems—solutions must work together.

IONATE’s HIT system is designed with interoperability in mind, meaning it can seamlessly integrate with other smart grid devices, third-party software, and energy management systems.

"Our technology doesn’t operate in isolation—it enhances existing infrastructures and enables true smart grid functionality," Williams explained.

The Importance of Industry Events for Innovation

Networking and collaboration play a vital role in accelerating innovation. Williams highlighted how industry events, such as Q Talks and leading trade expos, provide invaluable opportunities for:

🔹 Connecting with key stakeholders in the energy sector.
🔹 Learning about emerging trends in power systems and renewable integration.
🔹 Forging partnerships that drive collective progress.

"Face-to-face interactions at industry events lead to the best collaborations—sometimes, the most groundbreaking ideas come from unexpected conversations," Williams said.

What’s Next for IONATE?

IONATE is rapidly scaling its hardware and software solutions, with deployments underway in Portugal and Spain through partnerships with leading energy providers like EDP. The company is also expanding into sectors such as data centres, where power efficiency and quality are mission-critical.

Advice for Innovators & Entrepreneurs in the Energy Sector

Williams closed the session with valuable advice for aspiring innovators.

Watch the video to hear his insights firsthand!

IONATE is leading the charge in modernising power grids with its cutting-edge Hybrid Intelligent Transformer and smart grid technology. By combining real-time power control, digital optimisation, and seamless integration, the company is shaping the future of energy distribution.

With major field deployments, ongoing research, and a commitment to interoperability, IONATE is poised to play a crucial role in the next era of energy transformation.