£12 million investment strengthens Scotland’s semiconductor capability

A £12 million investment in Fife-based semiconductor manufacturer Clas-SiC Wafer Fab is set to strengthen Scotland’s semiconductor manufacturing capability and support the continued growth of Scotland’s Critical Technologies Supercluster.

Clas-SiC, based in Lochgelly, has secured a £1.9 million capital grant from Scottish Enterprise as part of the wider investment. The funding will support upgrades to the company’s technology and equipment, helping it respond to growing global demand for silicon carbide power semiconductors.

Used in applications including electric vehicles and renewable energy systems, silicon carbide semiconductors play an increasingly important role in improving the efficiency of power systems.

The expansion will also support new training opportunities for production staff and apprentices, helping to safeguard skilled jobs in Fife and strengthen Scotland’s advanced manufacturing base.

Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn said:

“Scotland is home to one of the largest semiconductor clusters in the UK. Clas-SiC is a fundamental part of this ecosystem and an asset to Scotland’s Critical Technologies supercluster.”

He added that the supercluster currently generates £4.5 billion in annual turnover and employs more than 11,000 people, with an industry-led ambition to grow revenues to £10 billion and create a further 6,600 jobs by 2035.

Scottish Enterprise Chief Executive Adrian Gillespie said:

“Semiconductors are one of the critical technologies shaping the global economy and Scotland is well placed to make the most of the opportunities this industry presents.”

He said the investment would support Clas-SiC’s continued growth in international markets while strengthening Scotland’s advanced manufacturing capability.

Clas-SiC Director and Chief Executive Officer Jen Walls said:

“This investment is important as it helps accelerate our next generation of technology. The additional capability will strengthen our position on the global stage and improve our ability to meet growing demand in a high growth sector.”

She added that the funding would help maintain Clas-SiC’s position within the global technology supply chain.

Semiconductors are one of four technology areas at the heart of Scotland’s Critical Technologies Supercluster, alongside photonics, quantum technologies, and sensing and connectivity.

The Clas-SiC expansion is another example of investment across Scotland’s critical technologies ecosystem helping to build the capability, skills and infrastructure needed to compete in high-growth global markets.