Semiconductor industry changes to energy storage

Why is the semiconductor industry at a unique juncture?

The semiconductor industry is at a unique juncture: demand for products is soaring to unprecedented heights just as pressure to reduce emissions is sharply increasing. While some companies might be tempted to focus on meeting customer demand, global warming also requires companies to consider new ways of working.

Can semiconductors be used for energy conversion & storage?

The application of semiconductors to new energy conversion and storage has been widely reported. Coupling devices through the joining principle is an emergent frontier.

How can semiconductor companies improve sustainability?

Those that hesitate may find that they are unaligned with customers that prioritize sustainability and consumers who want to go green. Both individual and collective actions by semiconductor players can help the entire industry increase its sustainability effort and meet the 1.5°C challenge.

Should semiconductor companies rethink their emissions goals?

To meet customer expectations and ensure sustainability, many semiconductor companies have already begun to rethink their emissions goals. Some semiconductor companies have recently set more aspirational emissions-reductions targets, but getting the industry to net zero will require more comprehensive action.

Do semiconductor companies have a sustainable supply chain?

Semiconductor companies understand and appreciate that many of their customers have set aggressive net-zero targets for their supply chain. To address these concerns, some large semiconductor companies have begun to set ambitious sustainability commitments (exhibit). Apple, for instance, plans to cut emissions by 75 percent along the supply chain.

How will semiconductor emissions increase through 2030?

We then projected how emissions might increase through 2030, factoring in rapidly expanding wafer capacity, evolving node sizes, and possible actions that semiconductor companies might take to reduce emissions.