Quantum for Energy and Utilities 2026

Top near-term quantum solutions in renewable energy and nuclear FIGURE 6 85%Quantum computing – grid optimization for variable renewable integration 45%Quantum communication – securing decentralized solar and wind farms connected via smart grids 35%Quantum computing – materials discovery for more efficient solar PV and wind turbine composites 30%Quantum sensing – geothermal subsurface heat flow mapping 77%Quantum computing – materials for radiation-resistant components 62%Quantum sensing – radiation detection with extreme precision 62%Quantum communication – quantum-safe encryption of nuclear facility operations and data 58%Quantum computing – reactor design simulations30%Quantum sensing – wind resource measurement with ultra-precise sensorsRenewable (solar, wind and hydro) Nuclear (fission future tech) Source: Community survey, World Economic Forum’s Quantum for Energy and Utilities Working Group, February 2026.Generation scheduling and unit commitment Optimizing water releases through cascades of dams involves hydraulic coupling, non-linear turbine efficiency curves, environmental flow constraints and market-price uncertainty. The resulting unit commitment and scheduling problems are computationally intensive. Quantum and quantum-inspired optimization algorithms are being benchmarked to navigate these complex solution spaces and improve water-value trade-offs. Structural simulation Current developments aim to explore photonic quantum computing for faster and more accurate finite-element analysis of hydroelectric dam structures, supporting safety assessments and life- extension planning for aging assets. Nuclear fission and future technologies In nuclear fission, quantum technologies mainly add value through better modelling, better monitoring and stronger cybersecurity. Quantum computing and quantum simulation can help accelerate parts of reactor-physics and thermo-hydraulic modelling workflows and speed materials discovery for longer-life, radiation-tolerant components. Quantum sensing can improve the precision and stability of radiation and environmental monitoring, while quantum-safe communication protects operational data against future cryptographic threats. Community insights for quantum solutions in renewable energy In renewables, optimization for variable renewable integration emerges as the top near- term use case, far exceeding other options such as securing decentralized grids and materials discovery. In nuclear energy, quantum computing for advanced materials and high-precision radiation detection is viewed as a priority. Quantum for Energy and Utilities: Key Opportunities for Energy Transition 17