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The evolving landscape of quantum computing

In a recent episode of the Energy Transition Talks podcast, Maida Zahid sat down with quantum computing expert Curtis Nybo to explore the challenges, benefits and future of this emerging technology. In this second instalment of the conversation, Curtis moves from theory to practice, focusing on energy optimization, logistics, cybersecurity and business applications for quantum computing across industries.

Overcoming challenges: The race to stable qubits

Quantum computing faces several hurdles, with coherence times being one of the biggest. Qubits, the building blocks of quantum computers, remain stable only for a limited time before randomly collapsing into a 0 or 1 state. This leads to unreliable results, making error correction and shielding from radiation critical in quantum hardware development.

Another challenge is the limited number of qubits available today. While large-scale quantum solutions require thousands of qubits, the most advanced machines currently operate with only a few hundred, restricting their problem-solving capabilities.

Optimizing supply chains with quantum computing

Quantum computing is revolutionizing supply chain logistics and optimization. Curtis highlights that quantum annealing computers are being used to optimize complex logistical processes, such as:

· Route optimization – Determining the most efficient way for delivery trucks to distribute fuel or goods while factoring in weather conditions and constraints.

· Demand forecasting – Predicting where materials need to be and at what time to prevent supply chain disruptions.

· Electricity distribution – Although not yet implemented, quantum computing could optimize energy distribution as effectively as logistics routing.

"From optimizing supply chains to predicting energy demand, quantum computing gives us the ability to solve problems we never could before." – Curtis Nybo

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