Guwahati: Experts from Assam and across India have discussed how the semiconductor industry can support green initiatives in the state. Semiconductors are crucial in developing energy-efficient electronics, reducing energy consumption in devices like smartphones and laptops, and are integral to renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and wind turbines. In electric vehicles (EVs), semiconductors enhance battery management, power conversion, and overall efficiency.
Assam was chosen due to its competitive semiconductor policy, competing with Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Orissa, and its abundant supply of high-quality water suitable for semiconductor sites.
“Semiconductors will have a huge impact on India's ability to become one of the top 3 world economies in the next few years. India’s growth is inextricably tied to semiconductors. It will be almost impossible for India to achieve such growth without semiconductors,” Santanu Borah, Professor of Management at University of North Alabama stated.
On the other hand, Paramananda Saikia, a Senior Scientist at Millipore Sigma, Boston, USA said, “The semiconductor industry will significantly contribute to sustaining green initiatives in various ways. For example, by designing smart semiconductors that will improve the efficiency and performance of renewable energy technologies such as electric vehicles, solar panels, wind turbines. Advance semiconductor will also optimize smart grid technologies in the field of electricity that will optimize energy distribution and consumption, minimizing harmful waste to the environment. In summary, by driving innovations in energy storage and management,the semiconductor industry will make the shift toward a more sustainable, low-carbon economy, aiding in climate change mitigation and promoting environmental sustainability.”
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The semiconductor industry in Assam can contribute to green initiatives in the state by providing access to high-quality water, green power, a pollution-free environment, and a stable talent pool. The state's abundant water supply can be converted into ultrapure water for semiconductor sites, and the proposed facility is strategically located. Assam's stable talent pool from North-East India also makes it an attractive location for the project. The semiconductor industry can also help India become a leading global hub for electronics manufacturing and design, fostering a domestic high technology manufacturing ecosystem, developing a regional technology ecosystem, positioning Assam as a technological hub in eastern India, and positioning India on the global semiconductor manufacturing map.
Researchers and academics from institutions like IIT Guwahati emphasize the role of semiconductors in advancing scientific research and innovation in green technologies. They stress the importance of developing local expertise and infrastructure to support semiconductor research, leading to breakthroughs in renewable energy systems, energy storage solutions, and sustainable manufacturing processes. Collaborative projects between academia and industry are crucial for driving technological advancements and environmental sustainability.
A team of researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, led by Dr Ankush Bag, has achieved a breakthrough in creating a special semiconductor called gallium oxide. This semiconductor holds the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency of high-power electronics, particularly in applications such as electric vehicles and high-voltage systems.
Industry leaders and entrepreneurs in Assam are optimistic about the business opportunities that the semiconductor industry presents, foreseeing the creation of startups and businesses focused on developing semiconductor-based solutions for green initiatives. Local communities and consumers in Assam are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of green technologies enabled by semiconductors, such as lower energy costs and reduced environmental impact through energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy sources.
However, several challenges need to be addressed, including developing necessary infrastructure and investment, building a skilled workforce, and ensuring the manufacturing process is environmentally friendly.
The semiconductor industry is also working on improving manufacturing processes to minimize environmental impact and reduce waste and emissions during production. Material innovation is also a focus, with ongoing research into sustainable and eco-friendly materials for semiconductor production.
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