Innovator Story: Switched Source
Smarter Circuits, Cleaner Power: Switched Source Finds a Foothold in Upstate New York
In 2016, Charlie Murray and Lane Nelson co-founded Switched Source with the goal of modernizing the electric grid. What began with an idea, is now a pioneering force in grid-enhancing technology, thanks in no small part to the vital role played by NYSERDA Innovation & Research.
A Spark of Innovation
Charlie, an experienced renewable energy developer, was deeply familiar with the intricate challenges utilities face integrating climate solutions and managing load growth. He had seen firsthand how regulatory hurdles and infrastructure limitations could slow the transition to cleaner energy. That reality set the foundation for the Switched Source mission: to bring smarter, cost-effective solutions to grid operations. At the heart of their innovation is the Phase-EQ, a power electronics device that has been likened to a “power router” for the electric grid, balancing traffic across the three wires on a utility distribution circuit. This balancing act enables utilities to serve more customers without expensive infrastructure upgrades, reduces energy losses, and clears a path for more rooftop solar and EV charging. The benefits are real: immediate cost savings, increased load capacity, and better integration of distributed energy resources.
NYSERDA Innovation & Research: More Than a Funder—A True Partner
Switched Source’s success in New York can be directly traced to NYSERDA’s early and ongoing support. At a time when venture capitalists avoided hardware and grid innovation due to long development cycles and high costs, NYSERDA stood out.
“We pivoted to New York for one main reason—NYSERDA,” Charlie recalls. “They were one of the only institutions willing to support product development in these areas.”
That support came in many forms:
- Early-Stage Funding: A NYSERDA grant helped Switched Source develop prototypes, run pilot projects, and refine their product. The company’s first successful deployment of the Phase-EQ took place in Sherburne, NY, with a municipally owned utility, made possible through NYSERDA’s sponsorship.
- Commercialization Pathway: NYSERDA’s programs connected Switched Source with expert advisors in sales and marketing who helped navigate commercialization.
- University Partnerships: Through NYSERDA-backed initiatives, Switched Source built collaborative R&D relationships with Binghamton University and its Koffman Incubator, tapping into specialized knowledge in thermal management for power electronics.
- Scaling Up: A successful demonstration with National Grid led to a major milestone—a commitment to deploy 30 Phase EQ units, unlocking an estimated $15 million in projects that will help New Yorkers avoid costly infrastructure upgrades.
“We wouldn't be here without NYSERDA,” Charlie emphasizes. “They supported us every step of the way”.
— Charlie Murray, CEO of Switched Source
Grid-Enhancing, Carbon-Reducing
Switched Source’s deployed Phase-EQ equipment has now been actively balancing power on New York’s grid for multiple years with documented results. Building on their early success in NY, the company has since worked with utilities from Alaska to Florida, proving the Phase-EQ’s effectiveness in diverse grid conditions. Utilities are seeing value, and the grid and customer benefits are clear.
Reduced Energy Loss
By balancing load, the Phase-EQ cuts down on wasted energy in the distribution system.
More Renewables
The technology makes it easier and cheaper to connect rooftop solar to the grid.
Faster Electrification
The Phase-EQ increases circuit capacity, enabling the smooth rollout of EV chargers and other electrification projects.
Why It Matters to New Yorkers
This isn't just a story about engineers and wires, it's a new chapter in keeping the lights on affordably and in an environmentally responsible way for New Yorkers. With electricity demand expected to increase in the coming years, New York needs cost-effective, scalable solutions. The Phase-EQ can defer costly upgrades, accelerate clean energy, and maintain reliability—all while saving ratepayers money.
“New tools will be needed to meet the demand; not just the traditional poles and wires,” Charlie says. “NYSERDA invested to have those tools developed, and now New York utilities are deploying them.”
— Charlie Murray, CEO of Switched Source
What’s Next
Switched Source has already begun deploying their expansion plan to meet increasing requirements for electricity. Their manufacturing partners in upstate New York stand to benefit as production ramps up. Their footprint across the State is growing, with projects continuing to roll out in partnership with major utilities. Switched Source’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when vision meets partnership. Steadfast support from NYSERDA Innovation & Research turned an academic prototype into a real-world solution—helping New York transition to a cleaner, smarter grid.
About NYSERDA Innovation & Research
NYSERDA Innovation & Research fosters a dynamic ecosystem that accelerates the development, demonstration, and commercialization of cutting-edge energy technologies. By catalyzing private investment, supporting groundbreaking research, and attracting world-class innovators to New York, NYSERDA advances statewide goals for decarbonization, resilience, and economic growth.