Thought Leadership
Pasqal and EDF have successfully used quantum computing for the first time to optimize smart charging systems. The 100-qubit quantum computer enables more precise forecasts for the energy requirements of electric cars.
The French quantum technology company Pasqal and the Grand Équipment National de Calcul Intensif (GENCI) have successfully carried out energy demand forecasts for electric vehicles on more than 100 qubits for the first time. Pasqal announced that the breakthrough was achieved in collaboration with the energy company EDF.
With the increasing share of electric vehicles – already 26% of new registrations in France in 2023 – the challenge of accurately predicting electricity demand is also growing. Pasqal’s quantum technology now enables more accurate forecasts for complex energy distribution.
A new dimension in energy optimization
The success is based on Pasqal’s technology with neutral atoms, which can process complex data sets. “The progress made in recent months shows the enormous potential of quantum computing for energy forecasting,” explains Loïc Henriet, Co-CEO of Pasqal.
The project is part of Pack Quantique (PAQ), a program funded by the Île de France Paris region. The collaboration between Pasqal and EDF started back in 2018, with GENCI being the first customer to use a 100-qubit quantum system called Ruby.
Leading the way for the energy transition
“With quantum computers, we have achieved a new dimension in power management optimization,” emphasizes Joseph Mikael, Head of Quantum Computing at EDF. The innovation should ultimately benefit energy consumers, as Stephane Requena, CTO of GENCI, emphasizes.
The success marks an important step for the practical application of quantum computing in the energy industry. The technology could play a key role in managing the energy transition in the future.
