Embracing chip fabs in a post-CHIPS Act economy

With the passage of the CHIPS Act in 2022, there has been a surge in domestic semiconductor manufacturing, providing a significant economic boost to many U.S. communities. These semiconductor fabrication plants (or fabs) bring tens of thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in investment, reshaping local economies in positive ways. But while the benefits are clear, municipalities must also prepare for the challenges of supporting these massive facilities, particularly when it comes to water and wastewater infrastructure.

In a recent article for Clear Waters Magazine, John Rydzewski, Carollo’s Private Sector Group Sustainability Lead, explores the infrastructure challenges associated with welcoming a semiconductor fab into a community. “Embracing Chip Fabs in a Post-CHIPS Act Economy,” focuses on the unique water demands of these facilities and the complexity of treating their wastewater. A single fab can require up to 10 million gallons of freshwater per day, and nearly all of it is discharged as wastewater—wastewater that is far more complex to treat than typical municipal flows.

Rydzewski emphasizes the importance of proactive upgrades to municipal wastewater treatment systems so they are able to handle the high volume and unique characteristics of fab wastewater. He discusses the need for strong collaboration between the semiconductor manufacturers, municipalities, and regulatory authorities to ensure that wastewater systems are ready when fabs begin operations. This partnership is key, as the chemical composition of fab wastewater can change as manufacturing processes evolve, requiring ongoing adjustments to treatment systems.

As Rydzewski points out, communities that embrace these challenges can create strong, mutually beneficial relationships with the tech industry. With the right planning, they can support technological innovation while ensuring environmental stewardship and water sustainability for years to come.

To learn more about how municipalities can adapt to these challenges, check out the full article.