KTH, Chalmers and Lund University strengthen Swedish semiconductor capacity

A common denominator in both the green transition and digitalization is the semiconductor. Despite the great importance of the small chip, Sweden and EU have lagged behind. KTH, Lund University, Chalmers University of Technology and various Swedish companies are now joining forces to strengthen Sweden's expertise and infrastructure for semiconductor technology.

 "We are well equipped to join forces and become a strong partner for the next step in the EU's chip initiative. Our three universities both complement and strengthen each other," says Anders Söderholm, President of KTH.

The semiconductor is the "brain" behind both electronic products and systems. Whether it is mobiles, vehicles, energy, household appliances or artificial intelligence, the component plays a key role. At the same time, Asian countries produce more than half of the world's semiconductors.

Global shortage

During the pandemic, there was a global shortage of semiconductors, resulting in delivery delays for everything from cars to mobile phones. In order to strengthen Europe's position, the EU has initiated the European Chips Act. One goal is for 20 per cent of the world's manufacturing to take place within the Union by 2030. In Sweden, Vinnova plans to finance the establishment of a competence centre for semiconductors as part of the initiative.

Collaboration with the industry

KTH, Lund University and Chalmers University of Technology - three universities that account for the majority of Swedish education and research in the field of semiconductors - are now joining forces to strengthen the competence centre.

 “Our three universities want to work together to strengthen the competitiveness of Swedish industry and society for digitalisation, security and the green transition. In a turbulent world, we create independence and help to ensure access to critical components in Europe," says Erik Renström, President of Lund University.

"The technical universities can be crucial actors in society and this initiative is a way for us to clearly take that responsibility," says Martin Nilsson Jacobi, President of Chalmers.

This article was first published on 19 March by KTH.