Hoku Lays Off 100 in Pocatello

(POCATELLO) – Hoku Materials in Pocatello has announced the termination of about 100 employees. Hoku cited financial difficulties at the polysilicon plant – only months before it was scheduled to go into commercial operation. Several liens have been filed against the plant for failing to pay construction costs, and some contractors have even started foreclosure proceedings in state courts. Hoku has also struggled to pay its own utility bills, leading to highly publicized negotiations with Idaho Power and state utility officials.