Abstract Since 1975, the present concept of dielectric power conversion has been under development. It differs from earlier concepts using pyroelectric properties of ferroelectric materials in three ways: (1) high power density i s to be achieved by utilizing the full swing of polarization reversal rather than small changes around the spontaneous polarization value; hysteresis loss which normally occurs in polarization reversal is to be minimized by use of a series inductor which prevents excessively rapid reversal and its attendant frictional loss, the energy being stored instead in the inductor, (2) high intrinsic efficiency is to be achieved by use of a near Carnot thermal cycle, (3) high overall efficiency is to be achieved by use of multiple staging; reed valves like those used in outboard engines are employed to pulse the heat between successive capacitors.