onsemi to Build End-to-End SiC Facility in Czech Republic
onsemi Announces Major Investment in Czech Republic for Advanced Power Semiconductors
The electrification of transportation, the rise of renewable energy sources, and the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) are creating an unprecedented demand for advanced power semiconductors. These specialized components play a critical role in optimizing energy conversion and management across these sectors. To address this growing need, onsemi, a leader in intelligent power and sensing technologies, has announced a strategic investment in the Czech Republic.
Building a State-of-the-Art SiC Manufacturing Facility
onsemi plans to establish a vertically integrated silicon carbide (SiC) manufacturing facility in the Czech Republic. This facility will be designed to produce the company's innovative intelligent power semiconductors. These advanced components are essential for improving energy efficiency in a wide range of applications, including:
- Electric Vehicles (EVs)
- Renewable Energy Systems (solar, wind, etc.)
- AI Data Centers
Enhancing European Supply Chain and Sustainability
"Our investment in the Czech Republic will create a Central European supply chain for intelligent power semiconductors," said Hassane El-Khoury, president and CEO of onsemi. "This will allow us to better serve our customers' growing demand for these energy-efficient technologies. Through collaboration with the Czech government, this expansion will also significantly contribute to the European Union's ambitious goals for reducing carbon emissions and environmental impact."
Significance for the Czech Republic
The Czech government has enthusiastically welcomed onsemi's investment decision. "onsemi's expansion in the Czech Republic is a strong testament to our country's attractiveness for foreign investment," stated Mr. Jozef Síkela, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic. "This investment not only strengthens our position in the semiconductor industry, but will also contribute to the development of the automotive industry and its transition towards electric vehicles."
Investment Details and Economic Impact
onsemi's planned investment is a multi-year brownfield project with a potential value of up to $2 billion (44 billion CZK). This investment builds upon the company's existing operations in the Czech Republic, which already include silicon crystal growth, silicon and silicon carbide wafer manufacturing (polished and EPI), and a silicon wafer fab. Currently, this existing facility produces over three million wafers annually, including more than one billion power devices. Upon completion, the new SiC manufacturing facility is projected to contribute over $270 million USD (6 billion CZK) annually to the Czech Republic's GDP.
Strategic Positioning and Technological Leadership
Pending final regulatory and incentive approvals, this investment has the potential to be one of the largest private sector investments in Czech history. It will further solidify the prosperity and economic dynamism of the Zlín region. onsemi is a pioneer in advanced semiconductor manufacturing within Central Europe. This investment will contribute to the strategic positioning of the region within the EU's semiconductor value chain, demonstrating that all EU countries can benefit from the European Chips Act. Furthermore, the announcement underscores onsemi's commitment to the goals of the European Chips Act, which aims to increase market share and technological advancement within the European Union's semiconductor industry, ultimately strengthening its resilience in the face of ever-growing demand.
Powering Innovation with Silicon Carbide
Silicon carbide (SiC) is a critical material for high-power, high-temperature applications. It is also notoriously difficult to produce. onsemi is one of the few companies globally with the capability to manufacture SiC-based semiconductors, encompassing the entire process from crystal growth to advanced packaging solutions. By expanding its production facilities in the Czech Republic, onsemi will be better positioned to meet customer demand and solidify its leadership in intelligent power solutions. This vertical integration will also allow onsemi to leverage its latest advancements in research and development (R&D) to maximize manufacturing and production efficiency.
Looking for a Source of Advanced Power Semiconductors?
BonChip Electronics is a trusted distributor of onsemi's intelligent power semiconductors, including those utilizing silicon carbide technology. We offer a comprehensive selection of electronic components, along with exceptional service and fast delivery. Contact BonChip Electronics today to learn more about onsemi's advanced power semiconductor solutions and how they can elevate your next project.
