The DOE’s Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, which supports domestic manufacturing of fuel-efficient vehicles, components and materials, has given a conditional commitment to SK Siltron CSS for a $544-million loan to expand manufacturing of silicon carbide (SiC) wafers for EV power electronics at the company’s two Michigan manufacturing plants.

SiC semiconductors potentially enable higher efficiency and higher voltages compared with traditional silicon semiconductors, which can translate to faster charging times and longer range for EVs. Demand for SiC wafers is expected to rise with EV sales.

The expansion of SK’s Bay City plant is expected to create up to 200 construction jobs and 200 permanent skilled positions. Through the Michigan New Jobs Training Program, the company will train local workers for SiC wafer fabrication in partnership with Delta College, located less than a mile from the project site.

Source: US Department of Energy