Hydro-Québec eyes quantum computing for energy challenges

Hydro-Québec has joined the Québec Digital and Quantum Innovation Platform (PINQ2) opening the way to quantum computing opportunities.

PINQ2, the Platform for Digital and Quantum Innovation created by the University of Sherbrooke and Quebec’s Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy, is the exclusive user of the IBM Quantum System One located in IBM Bromont near Montreal, opening the way to innovative computing approaches to member companies.

Hydro-Québec is already working on artificial intelligence algorithms capable of processing a large mass of information. Quantum computing is expected to open up even greater opportunities with new approaches to solving complex energy-related problems, such as demand forecasting and designing and operating more sustainable energy systems.

Quantum information could also be used to support high-performance computing in the field of materials simulation and discovery.

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“Hydro-Québec is proud to partner with a non-profit organisation that opens the door to research in various sectors of innovation,” said Christian Bélanger, senior director, Research and Innovation at Hydro-Québec.

“The energy transition will bring new challenges in the coming years and quantum technologies such as PINQ2 offer perspectives that we must explore. Boldness and innovation are part of our DNA and we intend to explore the potential of these fast-growing technologies.”

As part of the PINQ2, IBM partnership a global research centre for quantum solutions around sustainable development issues is being established in Quebec, in which Hydro-Québec is a founding partner.

As such, Hydro-Québec intends to collaborate on finding solutions to issues in the sustainable development sector.

The IBM Quantum System One in Quebec, which was unveiled in September 2023 as a first in Canada, is considered one of the most advanced quantum computers in IBM’s global fleet, with a utility-scale 127-qubit Eagle processor capable of exploring a new scale of problems that classical systems may never be able to solve.

Other installations are in Germany, Japan and the US.