Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC, 台積電) yesterday reiterated its plans for comprehensive water treatment and recycling facilities in Arizona, following reports that it could get mired down in “water politics” in the drought-affected US state.
TSMC said in a statement that it plans to construct a water recycling facility to meet the needs of its advanced wafer fabs in Phoenix, adding that it would also build a comprehensive wastewater treatment system to reduce consumption and increase efficiency.
The statement came after the US-based weekly Barron’s on Friday reported that TSMC might need to compete with agricultural users and Native American tribes in Arizona for access to water.
Photo: CNA
The report said Intel Corp’s advanced fabs in Arizona are expected to place additional pressure on TSMC’s water supply.
Citing an estimate from Phoenix officials, the report said TSMC could require up to 40,000 acre-feet (49 million cubic meters) of water a year if it builds six fabs as reported by foreign media, enough to supply 160,000 homes.
TSMC said it has been in contact with Phoenix officials since the initial planning stages of its fabs to ensure that it has sufficient water supplies.
TSMC in December last year said it would expand its investment in Arizona to US$40 billion from the original US$12 billion.
The company is to build a 4-nanometer and a 3-nanometer fab in the state, with the former expected to start mass production next year and the latter in 2026.
TSMC said that, to its knowledge, the authorities in Phoenix are keen to invest in water-related infrastructure to create a sustainable supply.
Phoenix, which can draw on water sources including the Colorado River, the Verde River, the Salt River and underground aquifers, has been designated by the state of Arizona as having a 100-year supply of water, TSMC said.
The company said wastewater released from its facilities would adhere to standards higher than those required by Arizona regulations.
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