Quantum computing has been proposed as a solution to the energy challenges in the artificial intelligence industry. The increasing energy and water needs in this sector put significant pressure on the world's limited resources and create unprecedented tensions in global energy networks.
Increasing Energy Demand in Data Centers
The International Energy Agency predicts that global electricity generation to meet the needs of data centers will increase from 460 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2024 to over 1,000 TWh in 2030 and then to 1,300 TWh by 2035. This amount is equivalent to adding another Germany to global electricity demand by 2024. According to this scenario, data centers in 2030 will consume more energy than all of Russia, the fourth-largest energy consumer in the world, with 1,176.11 TWh per year.
Read more: Shahid Hashemi Nejad Gas Refinery Continues to Develop Indigenous Technologies
The Role of Quantum Computing in Energy Optimization
Andrew Dzurak, founder of the quantum startup Diraq in Australia, states that the next generations of artificial intelligence require high energy consumption due to solving specific problems. He also predicts that quantum technologies will be ready for real-world applications in the coming years. Dzurak is currently conducting the first field test of a quantum computer at a data center in Sydney. He says that quantum computing can relieve a heavy burden from data centers.
Although quantum computing requires a significant amount of energy to operate, this demand is less than the energy needs of large data centers currently meeting the needs of artificial intelligence. Additionally, a September report published by a non-partisan global media outlet indicates that the carbon footprint of this sector will be relatively smaller compared to the artificial intelligence industry.
Australia is emerging as a leader in quantum computing, with several startups forming a quantum Silicon Valley in the country. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Energy is paying special attention to this field by providing $215 million to help domestic companies develop the first reliable quantum computer.
Read more: New York Plans to Start Converting Waste Heat to Clean Energy · The Head of the Energy Export Federation Emphasizes the Need for Growth in the Electricity Industry
