Phase One of the Fund saw Phasecraft awarded a contract for a feasibility study to explore the application of quantum computing to optimisation problems within energy grids. Following the successful completion of Phase 1, Phase 2 of this project will see Phasecraft work with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to prioritise and attempt to address such optimisation problems with quantum solutions. The project began on 1 January, 2024.
Phasecraft designs quantum algorithms to solve real-world problems using the imperfect quantum computers of today. Its aim is to accelerate the widespread adoption of quantum computing from decades to years away. Its algorithms are based on insights from theoretical physics and computer science.
The company's early focus has been on applying these algorithmic improvements to modelling and simulation problems, such as the discovery of new materials, and optimisation problems, including problems that are important in the design and use of complex energy grids.
Optimising energy grids is a problem of particular importance with the majority of individuals and businesses relying on constant energy for their day-to-day activity, meaning avoiding outages and re-routing energy in the case of extreme weather events is critical.
Building and maintaining grid connections is also expensive, costing up to £1.5 million per km of line, which is why determining the optimal layout and usage of the network’s growing infrastructure is important to keeping costs as low as possible for the taxpayer and consumer.
Running the grid is becoming increasingly complex, however, with the demand for electricity set to double by 2040 and with millions of smaller renewable generators connecting to the grid.
This complexity means the traditional algorithms used to optimise the grid are no longer fit for purpose. Phasecraft will look to develop quantum solutions to this problem and will work with the Supergen Energy Networks Hub and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero as part of the contract.
Ashley Montanaro, co-founder and CEO of Phasecraft, said: “The grid is coming under increasing pressure as part of the move to Net Zero, and handling this complexity and improving resilience against vulnerabilities is a significant computational challenge. Quantum computing has the potential to solve important problems in a number of sectors, not least the public sector, and we’re glad that the UK Government shares this belief.”
