Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable Energy Systems

The Fraunhofer Center for Sustainable Energy Systems (CSE) is an applied research and development laboratory dedicated to the commercialization of clean energy technologies. CSE engages in collaborative research and development with private companies, government entities, and academic institutions, performing research that broadly benefits firms, industries, and society. Founded in 2008 and supported by the Massachusetts state government, the CSE is part of an international research network spearheaded by Germany's Fraunhofer Society, Europe's largest contract R&D organization. Fraunhofer TechBridge supports the commercialization of early-stage clean energy technologies by providing R&D services, by connecting innovators with experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and strategic partners; and by forging connections with a network of incubators. Demonstration and evaluation (pilot study) awards will be available to select applicants to accelerate the process of utility adoption of technologies including smart grid technology areas such as: transmission and distribution, demand response, and power electronics. One initiative, U-Launch, provides awards of cash and in-kind services to innovative clean technology startups. Selected companies can be granted a combination of R&D services, business development mentorship and physical incubation space, based on needs assessment. In conjunction with Fraunhofer Ventures in Munich, Germany, the TechBridge staff works to aid in the U.S. commercialization and licensing of Fraunhofer-developed clean energy technologies within regional markets.