News Summary
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has started construction on a 15-acre Industrial Reclamation Water Plant in north Phoenix. This facility aims to enhance wastewater recycling, achieving a target of 90%. Initial operations will focus on reaching an 85% recycling rate, supporting TSMC’s sustainable water management strategies. The reclaimed water is projected to supply approximately 12,000 homes. The facility will also support future expansions and meet ‘ultrapure’ water standards crucial for semiconductor manufacturing, aligning with TSMC’s commitment to environmental stewardship and water conservation.
Phoenix
The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has officially commenced construction on a 15-acre Industrial Reclamation Water Plant (IRWP) at its fabrication site in north Phoenix. The new facility aims to boost TSMC’s wastewater recycling rate, targeting an impressive 90%, with initial operations expected to achieve an 85% recycling rate.
The development of the IRWP is part of TSMC’s broader strategy to enhance sustainable water management, having set a goal of “near zero liquid discharge.” This means the company plans to efficiently reuse nearly every drop of water utilized during its manufacturing processes. Once the recycling target is reached, the reclaimed water will be sufficient to meet the needs of approximately 12,000 single-family homes.
The IRWP will not only support TSMC’s existing two fabs but also has the capacity to accommodate future expansions. With plans for the plant’s operations to commence by 2028, TSMC aims to ensure that the recycled water meets the “ultrapure” standards necessary for semiconductor fabrication processes. Ultrapure water is essential for removing microscopic contaminants that could potentially affect the quality of semiconductor wafers, particularly for advanced manufacturing technologies, including TSMC’s cutting-edge 4nm chips.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
TSMC’s emphasis on sustainability is echoed in its water conservation strategy and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which include achieving a water positive status by 2030. Currently, TSMC recycles approximately 65% of its water through an internal resource center that serves auxiliary systems like air scrubbers and cooling towers.
The design of the Arizona plant incorporates successful elements from TSMC’s previous industrial water reclamation facilities in Taiwan while addressing the specific challenges posed by the higher hardness levels of Phoenix’s water, particularly concerning magnesium and calcium content. TSMC Arizona President Rose Castanares has highlighted the company’s strong commitment to green manufacturing and sustainable water use, underscoring the importance of water conservation in the arid region of Phoenix.
Supporting Economic Growth and Water Security
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego has emphasized the significance of the IRWP as a crucial step toward harmonizing economic growth with water security commitments for the city. The plant is projected to significantly alleviate the demand on the city’s water supply, thereby positively impacting the community.
Several factors influenced TSMC’s decision to establish its operations in Phoenix, including the state’s well-planned long-term water supply strategy and thoughtful urban planning guidelines. The decision to move forward with the IRWP reflects TSMC’s dedication to responsible environmental stewardship while contributing to the local economy.
Background Context
TSMC has a history of operating similar industrial water reclamation plants in Taiwan, where it has achieved notable milestones in generating industrial-grade recycled water for advanced semiconductor manufacturing. The anticipated metrics regarding TSMC’s environmental performance related to its Arizona operations will be included in the company’s upcoming 2024 Sustainability Report, highlighting progress and commitment to sustainable practices.
As TSMC continues to expand its operations and commitments in Phoenix, the IRWP stands as a testament to their innovative approach to addressing the critical issue of water use in semiconductor manufacturing, aiming for a future of sustainable growth and resource conservation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Phoenix Secures Federal Funding for Advanced Water Purification
Arizona Expands Semiconductor Manufacturing with TSMC
Arizona Approves Direct Potable Reuse Regulations
Phoenix Approves Multi-Billion Dollar Water Purification Project
Additional Resources
- KTAR News
- AZFamily
- Axios Phoenix
- AZ Big Media
- AZ Central
- Wikipedia: Semiconductor Manufacturing
- Google Search: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company
- Google Scholar: Water Reclamation in Industry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Water Reclamation
- Google News: TSMC Arizona Water Reclamation
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
