Laurie E. Locascio Director of NIST and the Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology | Official Website
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced a preliminary agreement with Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC) to expand U.S. production capacity of semiconductor-grade polysilicon. The U.S. Department of Commerce and HSC have signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) for up to $325 million in proposed funding under the CHIPS and Science Act. This investment aims to enhance the domestic supply chain and create over 1,000 jobs in manufacturing and construction.
Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, stated, "Polysilicon is the bedrock of semiconductors, and it’s important we have a reliable source of this material to manufacture the chips that help support our economic and national security." She emphasized that this proposal supports domestic materials suppliers like HSC, contributing to America's semiconductor manufacturing resurgence.
Founded in 1961, HSC is currently the only U.S.-based manufacturer producing hyper-pure polysilicon necessary for advanced semiconductor applications. The proposed project will see an increase in production capacity at HSC's Michigan campus, creating nearly 180 manufacturing jobs alongside over 1,000 construction positions.
National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard remarked on Michigan's role: "President Biden and Vice President Harris are committed to Michigan’s leadership in innovation and manufacturing."
Laurie E. Locascio from the National Institute of Standards and Technology highlighted the significance: "Today’s proposed investment with HSC would be a meaningful step towards strengthening our domestic materials manufacturers who can in turn bolster America’s entire semiconductor industry."
HSC Chairman and CEO AB Ghosh expressed pride in their contributions: “HSC is proud to be a manufacturing powerhouse for two vital industries of the future—semiconductor and solar.”
Additionally, HSC has partnered with local educational institutions for workforce development programs and participates in child care initiatives through Michigan's Tri-Share program.
This announcement follows guidelines set by CHIPS for America which has allocated substantial funding across multiple states aimed at boosting research, innovation, and job creation within the sector.
