Quantum computing uses the quantum properties of matter (superposition states, interference and entanglement) to perform calculations with qubits. To this end, four technologies are competing: superconduction qubits, silicon qubits, trapped ion qubits and photonic qubits. Although a universal quantum computer, able to solve any problem through quantum algorithms, is not yet available, progress is being made and industry is working with researchers to create quantum computers adapted to solve useful problems and thus benefit from a real quantum advantage. While QC technologies are not yet mature and their development may entail uncertainties, it is anticipated that within the next 10 years, QC will revolutionise a number of fields: simulation, optimisation, machine learning and cryptography.
Highlights
As of 2023, GAFAM and numerous start-ups are offering Quantum Computing-as-a-Service to demystify quantum computing. The quantum advantage should be indisputable within 5 years and this explains the interest shown by governments and the funds raised in start-ups. By way of example, start-ups Pasqal (France) and IQM (Finland) raised respectively €100 million and €128 million in 2022. QC can bring opportunities to DSOs for real-time operations and control of the grid. Yet, the risks it poses in the cybersecurity domain necessitates DSOs to take an interest in these technologies.
Opportunities for DSOs
- Enhancing scalability and efficiency for detailed power system simulations, e.g., optimal power flow.
- Facilitating real-time system operations, protection and control (power flow, voltage control, coordination for advanced relays and protection devices, etc.).
- Facilitating local energy optimisation by aggregation of large-scale distributed energy sources (DERs), and detailed modelling of battery energy storage systems.
- Enhancing machine-learning-based models and forecasting.
- Enhancing data security by quantum encryption and potential integration with blockchain.
Challenges for DSOs
- Intregration with existing ICT systems, i.e., integration of QC with classical computing-based existing systems. Hybrid quantum-classical systems are being developed in the transition phase.
- Cybersecurity: Existing cryptographic protocols are based on classical encryption. Development of quantum-proof (or post-quantum) cryptography (PQC) could be needed.
- Interpretability and complexity: The complexity of algorithms and their probabilistic nature make it challenging to interpret results and track/solve encountered problems. Explainable artificial intelligence for QC can address some of these challenges.
E.DSO Considerations
Data security is an integral part of the DSO business. DSOs need to keep a close eye on the development of quantum algorithms, which could render conventional methods of encrypting and protecting data obsolete. Therefore, DSOs may need to invest resources in developing PQC.
Potential use cases for DSOs
- Cryptography: cybersecurity of assets and encrypted communications for the essential service operator and quantum-based encryption to secure large quantities of data.
- Simulations, e.g., stochastic studies of large and interconnected systems and their detailed modelling involving network constraint and potential reconfigurations of network constraint situations.
- Local energy optimisation: local power flow and voltage management with large-scale aggregation of distributed energy resources and detailed modelling of battery storage systems.
- Machine learning: improving the assessment of equipment condition based on image processing, predictive maintenance, Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR) algorithms, load forecasting – especially enhanced weather forecasting – and hence, wind, and solar generation, improving chatbots for the relations with customers, etc.
- Real-time optimisation capability for network operation, protection and control, e.g., minimal technical losses, system costs or maximal usage of sustainable resources, voltage/load control, coordination for advanced protection devices and controls Advanced FLISR Algorithms, etc.
Ongoing projects
Several DSOs are carrying out technological monitoring activities, but none have mentioned any ongoing projects in the field of QC.
Last update: 14 February 2025