Quantum algorithms to optimise energy grids
Bristol and London-based quantum startup Phasecraft has won a £1.2m UK government contract to explore using quantum computing to optimise energy grids.
Phase One of the Fund saw Phasecraft awarded a contract for a feasibility study to explore the application of quantum computing to optimisation problems within energy grids. The next phase in the £1.2m project will see Phasecraft work with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to prioritise and attempt to address such optimisation problems with quantum algorithms.
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Phasecraft designs novel algorithms to solve real-world problems on today’s quantum computer hardware. The algorithms are based on novel insights from theoretical physics and computer science, and Phasecraft’s early focus is on applying these algorithmic improvements to modelling and simulation problems, including problems that are important in the design and use of complex energy grids.
Building and maintaining grid connections is also extremely expensive, costing up to £1.5 million per km of line, which is why determining the optimal layout and usage of the network’s growing infrastructure is important to keeping costs as low as possible for the taxpayer and consumer. However, running the grid is becoming increasingly complex, with the demand for electricity set to double by 2040 and with millions of smaller renewable generators connecting to the grid. This complexity means the traditional algorithms used to optimise the grid are no longer fit for purpose.
Phasecraft will look to develop quantum solutions to this problem and will work with the Supergen Energy Networks Hub and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero as part of the contract.
“We’re delighted to have been awarded this new contract to develop quantum algorithms for solving hard optimisation problems relevant to energy grids as part of the UK’s Quantum Catalyst Fund,” said Ashley Montanaro, co-founder and CEO of Phasecraft.
“The grid is coming under increasing pressure as part of the move to Net Zero, and handling this complexity and improving resilience against vulnerabilities is a significant computational challenge. Quantum computing has the potential to solve important problems in a number of sectors.”
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