October 23, 2024 /SemiMedia/ — The Biden administration has announced $325 million in funding to support Hemlock Semiconductor's plans to build a new factory in Saginaw County, Michigan. The facility will produce hyper-pure polysilicon, a crucial material for electronics and solar panels, and is expected to create 180 manufacturing jobs, along with additional construction roles.

The funding, part of the CHIPS and Science Act signed in 2022, aims to bolster the U.S. semiconductor industry. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo highlighted the administration's goal to rejuvenate domestic manufacturing, stating, “This investment is about rebuilding our semiconductor ecosystem with American talent.”

Hemlock plans to begin construction in 2026, with production set to start by 2028. The administration emphasized that the funding decision was driven by economic priorities rather than political timing, as Michigan remains a critical state in national elections.