Facing the challenges of more electric aviation and energy efficiency, power electronics has become an essential technology. It enables the conversion and control of electrical energy needed for engines and equipment, playing a major role in the energy transition for the aeronautics, rail, and automotive sectors.
"Power electronics is something you don't see, but it's omnipresent in electrical and electronic equipment," observes Frédéric Samson, innovation project manager at the AD’OCC agency. Components using silicon carbide (SiC) or gallium nitride (GaN) make equipment more compact, lighter, more efficient with less energy loss, and better integrated into embedded systems.
These advancements are crucial for decarbonized aviation, although the weight of batteries still limits all-electric solutions for large aircraft. In Occitanie, Daher is developing a hybrid aircraft prototype in Tarbes, while Aura Aero is working on electric and hybrid propulsion systems.
Since 2022, the Occitanie Region and AD’OCC have been structuring this sector through Power’Occ, which involves nearly 80 companies and about ten laboratories. The region covers the entire value chain, from semiconductors (NXP, STMicroelectronics) to research (Laplace, LAAS-CNRS, CEA) and aeronautics and space applications (Airbus, Daher, Thales). This ecosystem is fueled by the legacy of Motorola in Toulouse.
"We have a playground for power electronics manufacturers. And that is truly our differentiator at the French, and even European, level," emphasizes Frédéric Samson. This proximity facilitates cross-sector transfers, particularly regarding component reliability. Occitanie's adherence to the European Semiconductor Alliance strengthens this visibility.
Beyond technological performance, the challenges are strategic: strengthening European sovereignty, securing component supply, and developing more sustainable solutions, particularly through recycling.
“"We have a playground for power electronics manufacturers. And that is truly our differentiator at the French, and even European, level."
A key event will take place at Aeromart 2026 on Thursday, December 3rd, from 10:10 AM to 11:15 AM, with the panel discussion "Power Electronics / Power’Occ". It will bring together Jean-Luc Charlet (NXP), Fabio Coccetti (IRT Saint Exupéry), Nicolas Rouger (CNRS Laplace), and Vincent Escrouzailles (Daher) to discuss aircraft electrification, industrial needs, and cooperation for decarbonized aviation.
From December 1st to 3rd, 2026, Aeromart Toulouse will hold its 16th edition at the MEETT, gathering players from the aeronautics, space, and defense sectors. The Occitanie Region, CCI Toulouse Haute-Garonne, Toulouse Métropole, AD’OCC, and Toulouse Team Invest will showcase the territory's strengths at the institutional partners' pavilion.
