Featured in Sweden’s leading publication on industrial technology and innovation.
We are proud to be featured in the latest issue of Automation, Sweden’s leading publication on industrial technology and innovation. In the article, our CEO Charlotta Holmquist shares how Blixt.tech is transforming electrical infrastructure with our solid-state circuit breaker, Blixt Zero, and groundbreaking AI-driven solutions. By replacing outdated systems with digital technology, we’re driving efficiency, sustainability, and a dynamic energy future.
Full article translated to English below.
BLIXT – On the Path to Revolutionizing Electrical Infrastructure
Charlotta Holmquist, President of Blixt, and her team are pioneering a transformation in electrical infrastructure by integrating software and digital technology. In an interview, she shares the inspiration behind the company and their plans to create a more flexible and sustainable power grid, focusing on both hardware and software.
“Much of our inspiration came from viewing the electrical infrastructure as a mechanical environment. We asked ourselves: What if we could use software in the same way we do in other parts of society? Imagine the impact that would have on electrical infrastructure. That was our starting point when we developed our solid-state breaker, Blixt Zero,” explains Charlotta Holmquist.
Modernizing Mechanical Processes
Blixt.tech was founded with the goal of transforming old mechanical processes and components into digital electronic solutions. A key part of this mission was developing both hardware and software to optimize power flows and create a more dynamic electrical system. This work has led them to develop entirely new hardware that enables enhanced data collection and automation.
“We have created a new hardware layer that not only collects data but also acts on it. For instance, we transform the traditional mechanical switch into an electronic breaker, which not only increases safety but also opens up a whole new world of services where hardware and software applications can collaborate,” says Holmquist.
From Residential Homes to Heavy Industry
Blixt initially focused on residential applications but quickly realized that their solutions were even more critical in heavy industries, where power outages can result in enormous costs.
“In manufacturing, a production stop can cost millions. The same is true for the telecom industry, where downtime is extremely expensive. One area where we can make a significant impact is in predictive maintenance, which allows us to foresee when a machine is about to fail,” she explains. This enables companies to prevent production stops before they occur.
Software-Controlled Circuit Breakers
The first generation of Blixt Zero was rated for 16 amps, but the next step is expanding to meet the needs of industries and data centers. Charlotta describes how their switch can be programmed for various levels, simplifying future upgrades.
“With Blixt Zero, you can quickly upgrade from 16 to 32 amps through a simple software configuration,” she explains, adding that this can be crucial in future scenarios.
“For instance, if everyone in an apartment building gets an electric car, the system needs to be upgraded from 16 to 32 amps. With our switch, it’s just a matter of a simple software update.”
AI as a Standard Feature
Blixt.tech also sees opportunities to integrate AI into their systems to maximize efficiency and create smarter solutions for their customers.
“AI is a standard feature today. As soon as you have access to data, you should apply some form of algorithm or AI,” says Charlotta. “By using predictive maintenance, for example, we can analyze data patterns and foresee problems before they happen, saving both time and money.”
The Future of Energy Systems
Charlotta envisions a future where electricity is managed in an entirely new way, with software replacing today’s static systems.
“We have a system built 100 years ago, where production, distribution, and consumption were predictable. But today, with renewable energy, energy storage, and increased electrification, we need a dynamic system. If we don’t adapt, the old system won’t hold,” she explains.
“We lose 20-40% of all produced energy—it never reaches the end-user because we have such inefficient systems. This is due to the distribution lines where we have AC and DC at both ends, resulting in conversion losses on both sides.
Our vision is that in our system, everyone—whether industry or homeowners—can interact with the power system in a more interactive way. We need to replace the infrastructure; we can’t just tweak it or add band-aids every time new problems or needs arise. I’ve seen nightmare examples of so-called smart solid-state breakers where companies have built an electric motor into a switch so you can reset it via your phone.”
Resistance and the Road Ahead
Charlotta acknowledges resistance to change, especially from large traditional companies in the industry, but she remains confident that the transition will happen faster than many expect.
“Many large companies see what we’re doing and wonder how we’re succeeding, but we’re convinced that the shift to the digitalization of electricity is inevitable,” she concludes. “After all, we’re still relying on a system that’s over 100 years old,” Charlotta Holmquist concludes.