Former Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger Backs PowerLattice’s Innovative Chiplet Technology
Tech industry leaders are increasingly voicing concerns about a critical shortage of computing capacity driven by the escalating demand for artificial intelligence (AI). As large language models require more power and infrastructure for training and inferencing, semiconductor manufacturers are now prioritizing energy efficiency. In this evolving landscape, PowerLattice, a startup founded in 2023 by experienced electrical engineers from Qualcomm, NUVIA, and Intel, has emerged with a pioneering solution that reportedly reduces the power consumption of computer chips by over 50%.
On Monday, PowerLattice unveiled its groundbreaking technology following a $25 million Series A funding round led by Playground Global and Celesta Capital, raising total funding to $31 million. “This challenge—efficient power delivery—is complex and few teams can tackle it effectively,” Gelsinger stated, emphasizing his confidence in PowerLattice’s capabilities. His endorsement carries weight in the semiconductor sector, marking PowerLattice’s technology as a noteworthy advancement.
The company’s innovative approach revolves around a compact power delivery chiplet, strategically designed to position power closer to processors, thereby substantially minimizing energy loss. After two years of development, PowerLattice has already reached a significant milestone by commencing production of its first batch of chiplets with TSMC, in collaboration with an undisclosed manufacturer currently testing the technology.
Looking ahead, the startup intends to provide additional customers the opportunity to test its products by the first half of 2026. Potential customers include major chip companies such as Nvidia, Broadcom, and AMD, as well as specialized AI chip creators like Cerberus and Grok, along with Playground-backed ventures d-Matrix and NextSilicon.
Although many chip firms are independently pursuing energy efficiency improvements, Gelsinger remains optimistic about PowerLattice’s unique offering capturing interest. “Manufacturers might consider allocating portions of their production to our innovation alongside their traditional methods,” he explained. “We believe our significant efficiency gains will rapidly attract market share.”
While PowerLattice is not alone in tackling the energy crisis within chip manufacturing—especially as it faces competition from companies like Empower Semiconductor, which recently secured $140 million in funding—Gelsinger is confident in the extraordinary potential of PowerLattice. He anticipates the startup will soon seek a larger funding round to scale production, stating, “The concept is ambitious, the benefits substantial, and we’re likely to see interest accelerate as our progress becomes evident.”
