Diraq has been awarded AU$500,000 in funding through the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, Science and Resources’ Critical Technologies Challenge Program (CTCP). This funding will support a project designed to explore how quantum computers can contribute to the optimization of energy networks. The initiative involves a consortium led by Diraq, bringing together partners including the Real-Time Simulations (RTS) team in UNSW Sydney’s School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications, Macquarie University, OPAL-RT TECHNOLOGIES Australia, and the Australian Energy Market Operator.
The project’s aim is to ascertain the feasibility of using quantum computers to improve the optimization of increasingly complex energy networks. This involves integrating quantum computers with real-time simulation tools to enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and scalability of these networks. Diraq’s role in the consortium is to develop software that facilitates direct communication between the RTS team and Diraq’s quantum devices, without requiring manual intervention. The initial phase of the project will include running experiments with 10-qubit devices to understand how such algorithms could be implemented in larger quantum systems.
This project represents a step towards identifying practical applications for quantum computers within the energy sector. The CTCP aims to connect quantum computers with real-life applications. Diraq’s participation in this initiative supports its efforts to form partnerships with subject-matter experts in the quantum ecosystem, which is intended to enable the development of compact and affordable quantum computing solutions for utility-scale applications.
Read the full announcement here.
July 24, 2025
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