Quantum Computing for the Future Grid
(T&DWorld) While quantum computing applications to the power grid have remained mostly unexamined, forward-looking utilities are exploring the next step to enhance these analytics by understanding how emerging quantum computing technologies can be leveraged to provide higher service levels.
The electric power grid is undergoing unprecedented change. This change is due to decarbonization efforts, increased reliance on renewable and variable generation resources, the integration of distributed energy resources, and transportation electrification. In turn, these changes have required electric utilities to expand their monitoring and measurement efforts through metering infrastructure and distribution automation initiatives.
Building the future grid will require an overall view of the quantum computing technology applications in power systems, such as the dynamic interaction of the transmission and distribution systems. Current computational technologies might not be able to adequately address the needs of the future grid.
“The most notable change is observed in the role of the distribution grid and customers in system design and management. Transmission and distribution systems were frequently operated as distinct systems but are becoming more of an integrated system. As various types of distributed energy resources, including generation, storage, electric vehicles, and demand response, are integrated into the distribution network, there may be distinct interactions between the transmission and distribution systems. Developing more comprehensive models that include the dynamic relationships between transmission and distribution systems, and relevant computational tools that can solve such models will be essential in the future. Furthermore, better scheduling models are needed to design viable deployment and use of distributed energy resources.”
The University of Denver, in collaboration with various utilities, has established a consortium related to envisioning the quantum upgraded electric system of tomorrow. “QUEST” is the clever acronym that has been adopted for this university-industry consortium. The consortium aims to enhance university-industry collaborations to solve emerging challenges in building the future grid by utilizing quantum information and quantum computation
