QuGrids

For future energy systems, it is necessary to provide intelligent solutions to connect local subsectors with the higher-level system and to organize them as an efficient and cross-sectoral overall system of different energy sources.

The aim of QuGrids is to establish an interdisciplinary team of scientists to investigate how quantum-based technologies (quantum computing and quantum communication) can change the planning and operation of energy grids. Our goal is to create a network based in the state of Northrhine-Westpalatinate (NRW) that leads the research, development, dissemination and education of quantum-based energy grids.

NFDI4Energy aims to establish a joint research infrastructure for FAIR data, models, and processes, whereby results are to be made reproducible and transparent. In addition, society is to be involved in the identification and solution of relevant research questions and the transfer of knowledge between research institutions and commercial enterprises is to be promoted through FAIR research data management. Further goals are to simplify the integration and coordination of simulation-based models and to integrate the infrastructure provided for energy system research into the broader NFDI infrastructure.

The coordination of distributed resources and the involvement of users enable a climate-neutral and secure energy supply. However, this increases the computing effort for the planning and operation of energy networks. Quantum computing can help to solve scaling problems, especially in the planning phase. Furthermore, while digitalization is part of the solution for real-time control and optimization, it also poses new challenges related to data transmission, cyber threats and security vulnerabilities in the energy sector. Quantum-based communication offers an opportunity to develop a secure infrastructure for energy grids.

We believe that quantum technology can dramatically revolutionize the planning and operation of energy grids, including the necessary information and communication technologies. Specifically, QuGrids contributes in the following areas:

1. Evaluating the potential and shortcomings of quantum technologies for energy grid planning and operation by developing a set of exemplary use cases,
2. Establishing a solid source of funding to support further research activities in the newly created area, and
3. Developing teaching and training materials to educate a new generation of scientists and experts capable of tackling the challenges of quantum-based energy networks.

Partners:

Institutes IEK-10, JSC, PGI-8, PGI-12 of Forschungszentrum Jülich, Fraunhofer FIT, Institutes ACS, COMSYS of RWTH Aachen University, Insitute DoQT of Universität Münster