Intel to make world’s largest AI chip factory in the US, spend over $100 billion across four states
The move comes after securing $19.5 billion in federal grants and loans, with hopes of securing an additional $25 billion in tax breaks. The centrepiece of Intel’s ambitious five-year spending plan is the development of what CEO Pat Gelsinger described as “the largest AI chip manufacturing site in the world” near Columbus, Ohio, slated to commence operations as early as 2027.
The US government’s allocation of federal funds to Intel under the CHIPS Act underscores the nation’s commitment to bolstering domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.
Intel’s investment strategy also involves modernizing facilities in New Mexico and Oregon, as well as scaling up operations in Arizona, where rival Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) is also expanding its presence with support from President Joe Biden’s semiconductor manufacturing initiative.
The infusion of funds from the Biden administration’s broader chip manufacturing revitalization initiative is expected to significantly bolster Intel’s competitiveness. Historically, Intel has been a leader in semiconductor manufacturing, reinvesting profits into research and development to maintain technological supremacy.
However, in recent years, the company has faced challenges, ceding ground to competitors like TSMC and experiencing declining profit margins.
Gelsinger, who unveiled a strategic plan in 2021 to reclaim Intel’s top position, has emphasized the importance of government support in executing the strategy profitably. With federal assistance secured, Intel is poised to embark on a significant spending spree, with approximately 30 per cent of the $100 billion earmarked for construction expenses, including labour and infrastructure.
Intel’s investment plan also includes procurement of cutting-edge chipmaking equipment from industry leaders such as ASML, Tokyo Electron, Applied Materials, and KLA.
These investments are crucial for bringing the Ohio facility online by 2027 or 2028, although Gelsinger cautioned that market conditions could influence the timeline.
Industry analysts anticipate that it will take Intel three to five years to establish itself as a formidable player in the foundry market for advanced chips. However, they note that additional investment will be necessary for Intel to surpass TSMC, which is expected to maintain its leadership position in the foreseeable future.
Gelsinger has underscored the necessity of continued government support to ensure the United States remains a leader in semiconductor manufacturing. Despite the backing from federal initiatives, Intel faces pressure to demonstrate its competitiveness against international rivals, particularly in Taiwan and South Korea.
Nevertheless, Intel’s significance to US interests remains paramount, given its extensive workforce, technological capabilities, and domestic supply chain. While competitors like TSMC and Samsung expand their presence in the US, Intel’s continued leadership in the semiconductor industry is deemed crucial for maintaining a robust domestic technology sector.
