Supporting Europe’s semiconductor hub in the “Silicon Saxony”
Published on April 13, 2026
2 minutes
Europe currently accounts for around 10% of global semiconductor production capacity1. To strengthen technological sovereignty and reduce reliance on distant suppliers, European public authorities are actively supporting investment in new semiconductor manufacturing plants and related infrastructure.
Producing locally and at scale to address capacity and dependency risks
In this context, Air Liquide is committing more than 250 million euros to a new production site in Dresden, at the heart of the “Silicon Saxony”, a major European hub for semiconductor manufacturing. This investment, the largest ever made by the Group to support the semiconductor industry in Europe, is linked to a long-term contract with a leading semiconductor manufacturer located in this region and will support the construction of state-of-the-art industrial gas production units.
By 2027, Air Liquide will build, own, and operate three Air Separation Units and two hydrogen production units, along with the associated infrastructure, directly on or near the customer’s site. Relying on digital technologies, standardization, and modular design, these facilities will deliver continuous supplies of ultra-high-purity gases essential to advanced semiconductor manufacturing, including nitrogen, oxygen, argon, hydrogen, helium, and CO₂.
Reducing emissions through on-site supply and renewable electricity
By securing large-scale, local production, Air Liquide enables its customers to ramp up chips’ manufacturing – while also supporting decarbonization objectives. Onsite production will significantly reduce CO₂ emissions associated with transport, and the electricity used to power the facilities is expected to be 100% renewable.
This investment builds on Air Liquide’s strong expertise supporting the semiconductor industry around the world. With this project, the Group aligns strategic proximity, technological expertise, and long-term contractual commitments to reinforce its leadership in a market that serves as a key growth driver for the Group.