A semiconductor device is fabricated with energy based process(es) that alter etch rates for dielectric layers within damascene processes. A first interconnect layer is formed over a semiconductor body. A first dielectric layer is formed over the first interconnect layer. An etch rate of the first dielectric layer is altered. A second dielectric layer is formed on the first dielectric layer. An etch rate of the second dielectric layer is then altered. A trench etch is performed to form a trench cavity within the second dielectric layer. A via etch is performed to form a via cavity within the first dielectric layer. The cavities are filled with conductive material and then planarized to remove excess fill material.