Quantum computing is an up-and-coming field, harnessing the power of quantum physics to improve data processing and information transfer. Classic computers rely on binary systems, where bits have a value of either 1 or 0. In contrast, quantum computers use phenomena like superposition and entanglement to create “qubits”; these can take on a state of 0 or 1 at the same time. Since qubits can take the form of multiple arrangements at a time, the number of states and arrangement of bits is much larger than that of classical bits. The sheer power of quantum computers is almost impossible to imagine — a current supercomputer factoring a 2048-bit prime number would take a trillion years, but with a quantum computer, this would take just one minute.
So, what does this mean for the environment? Microsoft’s Dr. Julie Love, senior director of quantum business development, and Lucas Joppa, chief environmental officer, believe that quantum computers could be the tool that helps us solve our major environmental problems. One of quantum computing’s most compelling aspects is its potential use for modeling and growth optimization — due to the high data-processing speeds provided by this technology, quantum computers can analyze data points much more efficiently. Quantum optimization algorithms attempt to minimize any potential errors in finding a solution to a problem, and allow us to tackle problems that classic computers have not yet been able to solve completely. Currently, quantum optimization is being targeted at improving land use, reducing food waste, and optimizing crop yield and growth rates for sustainable agriculture. These optimization calculations are carried out through the process of quantum data fitting, in which a quantum computer creates a function that best fits a set of data. Most commonly, this will employ the “least squares fitting” method, where the computer will construct a function that aims to reduce the difference in the squares of the data points and the function.
In addition to optimization models, research by McKinsey and Company has shown that quantum technology can help create higher density lithium batteries by providing vital information on chemical components and electrolyte complex formation, resulting in 50% higher energy density. These more efficient batteries could be used in electric vehicles, or as a storage solution for grid-scale power. The figure below illustrates the substantial effect that quantum computing and battery storage can have on the solar power industry in the EU alone.
Evidently, quantum computing represents an incredible opportunity for the energy industry in the future, but the current state of quantum technology has not yet reached its full potential. One of the largest problems facing the quantum computing world today is error correction. Interactions with their environment cause quantum computers to collect “errors” in their calculations and computations, thus reducing the efficiency and accuracy of the computers. Another key issue has been heating; high temperatures lead to more qubit errors, thus quantum computers must have an adequate cooling system. While researchers at MIT have found some preliminary solutions to this issue, there is still much that can be improved on to ensure that quantum computers are working as productively as possible.
Overall, quantum computing holds a great power that can be harnessed to better the world around us, but problems such as cooling systems and error rates must be resolved before we can start using quantum processes to their fullest.
Written by Marina Adamantiadi for STEP
Edited by Tongfei Zheng
References
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Goff-Eldredge, A. G., Zachary. (2022, October 21). How Quantum Computing Can Tackle Climate and Energy Challenges. Eos. https://eos.org/features/how-quantum-computing-can-tackle-climate-and-energy-challenges
Kobie, N. (2023, January 13). How quantum computing can fight climate change. Cloud Pro. https://www.itpro.com/technology/369845/how-quantum-computing-can-fight-climate-change
Microsoft. (n.d.). Quantum Impact: Computing a more sustainable future (Ep. 1). Www.youtube.com. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUG9MXB7UK4
O’Brien, J. (2022, May 27). How quantum computing can help tackle global warming (P. Hillenbrand, Interviewer) [Interview]. In McKinsey and Company. https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/mckinsey-digital/our-insights/how-quantum-computing-can-help-tackle-global-warming
Pflitsch, M. (2022, September 2). Council Post: Will Quantum Technology Be The Silver Bullet For Climate Change? Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2022/09/02/will-quantum-technology-be-the-silver-bullet-for-climate-change/?sh=56ad6df53c1f
Swayne, M. (2023, March 24). What Are The Remaining Challenges of Quantum Computing? The Quantum Insider. https://thequantuminsider.com/2023/03/24/quantum-computing-challenges/
Wiebe, N., Braun, D., & Lloyd, S. (2012). Quantum Algorithm for Data Fitting. Physical Review Letters, 109(5). https://doi.org/10.1103/physrevlett.109.050505
Zewe, A. (2023, February 23). A new way for quantum computing systems to keep their cool. MIT News | Massachusetts Institute of Technology. https://news.mit.edu/2023/new-way-quantum-computing-systems-keep-their-cool-0221
