by By Oluchi Omai
The Biden-Harris Administration announced a preliminary agreement with Wolfspeed, Inc. to provide up to $750 million in funding under the CHIPS and Science Act. This funding will support the construction of the world’s largest silicon carbide wafer manufacturing facility in Siler City, North Carolina, and expand Wolfspeed’s facility in Marcy, New York. These projects are expected to create over 5,000 jobs.
The new facility in North Carolina will be the first high-volume 200mm silicon carbide wafer manufacturing plant in the world, while the Marcy facility will increase production by 30%. Silicon carbide semiconductors are key for electric vehicles, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence, and play an important role in national security.
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo highlighted that these investments will boost U.S. semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, create jobs, and enhance national security.
Wolfspeed’s expansion is part of a larger $6 billion plan and aims to significantly increase production capacity. The company also announced partnerships with educational institutions and local organizations to develop workforce training programs and address child care needs for employees.
The CHIPS funding will also attract at least $750 million in private investment and is expected to help Wolfspeed cut operational emissions by 50% by 2030.
