Quantum Computing for the Future Grid

Source: Martha Davis · T&D WORLD · | July 19, 2021

We need a robust computational foundation that can convert all this collected big data into actionable information.

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The electric power grid is undergoing unprecedented change. This change is due to decarbonization efforts, increased reliance on renewable and variable generation resources, the integration of distributed energy resources, and transportation electrification. In turn, these changes have required electric utilities to expand their monitoring and measurement efforts through metering infrastructure and distribution automation initiatives. All these efforts have resulted in the collection of mountains of data from the electric grid. While this significant increase in data collection enables better monitoring of the grid and enhanced decision making, we still need a robust computational foundation that can convert all this collected big data into actionable information.

Quantum Computing Applications in Power Grids

As mathematical challenges increase and data becomes core to modern utility decision-making, our industry needs to make progress and draw from emerging analytics and computing technologies. Quantum computing is a ground-breaking information processing technology that can support efforts to address power system challenges and enable the grid of the future. Given the promising applications to the power grid, this is an area of research that has really caught my attention lately. While quantum computing applications to the power grid have remained mostly unexamined, forward-looking utilities are exploring the next step to enhance these analytics by understanding how emerging quantum computing technologies can be leveraged to provide higher service levels.