The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) unveils a new approach to powering quantum computers using quantum batteries, which could result in making computers faster, more reliable, and more energy efficient.
A new study – involving CSIRO, University of Queensland, and the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology – has theoretically shown how tiny quantum batteries could power a quantum computer, increasing its number of quantum bits fourfold.
Quantum batteries are devices that store energy using light, allowing them to recharge by being exposed to it. When integrated into a quantum computer, CSIRO says it can be continually recharged by the machine’s own components.
Rather than chemical reactions, quantum batteries operate based on quantum mechanical principles, often using advanced materials to achieve high-speed charging and high-energy density.
In this system, the battery becomes linked with the computer’s quantum processing units through a phenomenon known as entanglement, creating a shared quantum connection.
Key step in quantum energy
Co-author of the study and CSIRO’s quantum batteries research lead James Quach says these findings bring the researchers one step closer to solving the energy, cooling, and infrastructure challenges restricting quantum computers.
“It’s like giving the computer its own internal fuel tank. Instead of constantly refilling it from the electricity grid, the battery recharges while the computer operates,” Quach says.
“This research forms a key step in our exploration of quantum energy – an emerging field that could fundamentally reshape the way we create efficient, sustainable energy systems.”
“We’ve calculated that quantum-battery-operated systems will generate significantly less heat, require fewer wiring components, and fit more qubits into the same physical space – all important steps toward building practical, scalable quantum computers.”
Quantum computers rely on the rules of quantum physics to solve problems that could transform computing, medicine, energy, finance, communications, and many other fields.
However, CSIRO reveals that sustaining their delicate quantum states typically requires room-sized, energy-intensive cryogenic cooling systems and a system of room-temperature electronics.
Modelling suggests that architecture could improve computational speed through what is called quantum superextensivity – a phenomenon where the more qubits there are, the faster they are.
Quach notes that while quantum batteries remain an emerging technology and further development is required, this approach creates “exciting” possibilities for the future of quantum computing.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: CSIRO
