The Biden administration announced an $825 million investment in a new semiconductor research and development facility in Albany, New York, on Thursday. The facility, backed by the Department of Commerce and managed by Natcast, aims to advance the U.S.’s capabilities in semiconductor manufacturing by focusing on Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography (EUV) technology. EUV is a sophisticated process required for producing modern microchips, and the facility’s research is expected to support American competitiveness in this essential field.
Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized that the facility “represents a key milestone in ensuring the United States remains a global leader in innovation and semiconductor research and development.” The move is part of a broader governmental strategy to increase domestic semiconductor production and decrease reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly amid ongoing global supply chain challenges and geopolitical tensions.
The administration is finalizing new rules that restrict U.S. investments in certain technology sectors in China, including artificial intelligence. Scheduled to take effect on January 2, the regulations aim to prevent American resources and expertise from contributing to sectors that could impact U.S. national security. Raimondo previously indicated her commitment to securing multiple funding awards to strengthen U.S.-based chip production, signaling a concerted push to develop a robust domestic tech ecosystem that can meet national and commercial demands.
The Albany facility will serve as part of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NTSC), intended to drive innovations within the U.S. semiconductor industry.
