May 28, 2002 — Hsinchu, Taiwan–In recent weeks, there have been numerous reports about the drought conditions in Taiwan and how it may affect chip makers this summer, fact is the hardest hit region is north of Taipei, according to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (TSMC).
“Taiwan is approximately 500 miles from top to bottom and not all regions are affected the same way by the drought,” said Chuck Byers of TSMC. To date, the water reservoir at the Science Park is 70 percent full and Byers says more water is going in than what’s being taken out.
TSMC says there is enough water to last through the end of June but isn’t too concerned since the rainy season is fast approaching. However, if the rains don’t come, TSMC has a contingency plan in place. “If needed we will transport water to the fabs, from the south,” Byers said.