Quantum boost for Spanish power grid
Quantum algorithms from Multiverse Computing in Spain are being used to optimise the local electricity grid and develop additional green energy storage.
A joint project with multinational clean energy firm Iberdrola is using quantum algorithms to select the optimal number, type and locations of supplemental energy storage batteries for the electrical grid. The two companies will work together for 10 months as part of the Gipuzkoa Quantum Programme in the Basque Country of Spain, a quantum computing hub and smart grid innovation centre.
Because electrical grids are integrating increasing amounts of renewable generation, electric vehicles and other distributed energy resources, supplemental batteries are playing a vital role. i-DE, Iberdrola’s distributor in Spain, will work with Multiverse Computing to look at the many variables must be considered when determining battery placement within smart grids.
These variables include connections with neighbouring power systems, flexibility in existing generation sources, and the hourly, daily, and seasonal changes in power demands. Multiverse’s quantum algorithm experts will use quantum and quantum-inspired algorithms to solve these computationally complex problems, which classical computers cannot manage.
This comes as the European Commission approves a €350 million scheme to to support the construction and operation of electricity storage facilities. The funding is part of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) as part of the European Green Deal.
The scheme will be fully funded through the RRF thorough to June 2026 to increase the share of renewable energy sources in the Spanish electricity system with 1GW of storage and support the secure operation of the Spanish electricity system. The award of the contracts to the selected projects should take place before the end of 2024 with the storage facilities in operation by the end of 2026.
Multiverse’s optimization quantum algorithms are being used in the US to help solar and wind installations in cities and states make some of the same improvements. Grid batteries are especially helpful with green energy sources as batteries can store energy at peak generation times and store it for use during peak demand.
Quantum computing can enable more efficient optimization algorithms, allowing for the optimal scheduling and dispatch of electricity generation, load balancing, and resource allocation.
Applications such as PMU placement, unit commitment or facility location-allocation, are among the first expected to be addressed by quantum devices and as the technology evolve sit will also be able to solve more complex issues in power flow and transient analysis, minimizing energy waste and enhancing system performance.
Quantum algorithms can also be used to manage the growing amounts of data produced by sensors in smart grids, enhancing classical machine learning methods with pattern recognition and anomaly detection, which would enable faster and more accurate decision-making. This can lead to more effective fault detection, more precise electricity load and price forecasting and improved grid stability.
“Our quantum optimization algorithms could help utilities meet new requirements aiming to align utility profit motives with environmental goals, including decarbonization and resilience,” said Enrique Lizaso Olmos, CEO of Multiverse Computing.
If you enjoyed this article, you will like the following ones: don't miss them by subscribing to :
