The Boise-based computer chip maker Micron Technology Inc. is scaling back on its plans to develop energy-efficient lighting technology, leading to the layoff of at least 30 workers.
Micron spokesman Dan Francisco confirmed the decision Wednesday in a story published by the Idaho Statesman. Francisco says increased competition in the LED market, a changing world economy and decision to focus on computer memory led Micron executives to narrow the focus on the development of LED technology.
The company started the LED light technology program in 2009 with the help of $5 million in federal economic stimulus cash. The division had 170 employees, and after the job layoffs 30 workers will remain with the program while another 110 have already taken other jobs with Micron.