Quantum Computing for Energy Management: A Semi Non-Technical Guide for Practitioners

TL;DR

This paper provides a semi-technical overview of how quantum computing can enhance energy management by enabling more efficient integration of distributed energy resources and smart grid technologies.

Contribution

It introduces the potential applications and challenges of quantum computing in energy management, bridging technical concepts for practitioners.

Findings

Quantum computing can exponentially speed up certain energy management computations.

It offers opportunities for more efficient integration of DERs into smart grids.

Challenges include hardware limitations and the need for specialized algorithms.

Abstract

The pursuit of energy transition necessitates the coordination of several technologies, including more efficient and cost-effective distributed energy resources (DERs), smart grids, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), energy-efficient technologies, Internet of Things (IoT), edge computing, artificial intellience (AI) and nuclear energy, among others. Quantum computing is an emerging paradigm for information processing at both hardware and software levels, by exploiting quantum mechanical properties to solve certain computational tasks exponentially faster than classical computers. This chapter will explore the opportunities and challenges of using quantum computing for energy management applications, enabling the more efficient and economically optimal integration of DERs such as solar PV rooftops, energy storage systems, electric vehicles (EVs), and EV charging stations into the grid