The reshoring of critical semiconductor and energy infrastructure is an American priority. Securing domestic production of polysilicon, a critical material in the production of computer chips and solar panels, is Highland Materials’ mission.

Currently, 96% of polysilicon produced worldwide is made in China. Highland Materials is a U.S.-based technology company that has revolutionized polysilicon production with a cost-effective, environmentally friendly process to accelerate America’s path to independence in semiconductors, resulting AI, and energy technologies.

A Better Solution

Highland Materials has a U.S. patent-protected silicon purification technology proven through years of commercial production and sales—The only silicon manufacturing process that can upcycle saw kerf and old solar panel materials creating a circular U.S. economy.

A pilot facility to demonstrate the process will be brought to scale at a Tennessee facility served by abundant, affordable power by the Tennessee Valley Authority in a welcoming community that will create more than 400 high-paying American jobs. The facility is strategically positioned within a 6-hour drive of its intended customers.

A Faster Solution

Compared to existing technology that cannot recycle kerf or solar modules, Highland Materials can construct and operate its Tennessee facility in half the time (2 years) needed compared to the existing (Siemens) technology. The Highland Materials process is inherently safer to workers and the environment with a footprint 1/6th the size of existing technology for the production of 20,000MT per year. This can be achieved with U.S. sourced equipment, eliminating trade or tariff issues.

A More Cost-Effective Solution

Plant capital costs are less than half of existing technology. The ability of the Highland Materials process to recycle kerf provides huge cost savings for its customers while reducing energy costs by 50% and 50% less operational costs. Saw-kerf waste in the wafering process results in a combined loss of 30–50% of polysilicon, creating unnecessary emissions and causing costs throughout the manufacturing process. This lower cost solution can amply provide quality polysilicon material for domestic production of computer chip and solar panels and grow a U.S.-based export economy.