Renesas Electronics Corporation, headquartered in Koto-ku, Tokyo, and led by President and CEO Hidetoshi Shibata, is focused on expanding its production capacity for power semiconductors, particularly in anticipation of the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). The company has initiated operations at the Kofu factory in Kai City, Yamanashi Prefecture. To mark the commencement of operations, an opening ceremony was held today, attended by officials from Yamanashi Prefecture, local governments, and partner companies.
The Kofu factory is under the umbrella of Renesas Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Renesas, located in Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki Prefecture, with Hidehiko Ozawa serving as President and Representative Director. The factory houses a production line capable of handling 150mm and 200mm wafers, which had been non-operational since October 2014. To address the rising demand for power semiconductors in support of achieving a decarbonized society, Renesas has outlined plans to repurpose the existing building at the Kofu factory, operating it as a 300mm line exclusively dedicated to power semiconductors from May 2022. This strategic decision follows a 90 billion yen capital investment in 2022, paving the way for the commencement of operations and the anticipated mass production of power semiconductors, focusing primarily on IGBTs, by 2025. This move will effectively double Renesas' current power semiconductor production capacity.
In response to the commencement of operations, Hidetoshi Shibata, Representative Executive Officer, President, and CEO of Renesas, expressed his delight about the revival of the Kofu factory. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the local governments, construction companies, equipment vendors, contract firms, and other involved parties. He extended his gratitude for making this transformation possible. The power semiconductors manufactured at the Kofu factory are expected to play a crucial role in the efficient utilization of substantial electricity, crucial as the popularity and adoption of EVs and AI continue to expand.
