Challenges in Silicon Photonics Highlight Need for Infrastructure Investment in Europe
A recent study indicates that inadequate prototyping and scale-up infrastructure could hinder the silicon photonics sector's growth in Europe, with 66% of firms identifying manufacturing access as the primary obstacle. Overcoming these issues may enable firms to generate revenue significantly earlier, underscoring the urgency for strategic investment in the industry.

The silicon photonics sector faces significant barriers due to inadequate infrastructure, as highlighted by the CORNERSTONE Photonics Innovation Centre's research. Key findings reveal that 66% of surveyed companies cite manufacturing access as a major roadblock, with 59% expressing that their countries lack the necessary infrastructure for commercialization.
Prototyping delays are costing an average of $2.7 million per company, with 31% of firms reporting delayed product timelines. The EU's proposed Chips Act 2.0 aims to enhance semiconductor resilience, yet 54% of respondents in the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain feel current support is insufficient.
Additionally, in the UK, 64% of companies are developing silicon photonics for quantum technologies, emphasizing the strategic importance of this technology. Addressing scale-up infrastructure could retain talent and accelerate commercialization in a competitive landscape.




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