Quantum for Energy and Utilities 2026

1.3 When will quantum applications materialize in energy and utilities? Quantum applications are expected to emerge unevenly and in three waves across the energy value chain: –Near-term decision optimization in operations and markets. –Mid-term system planning and control, as grids and variable generation scale up. –Longer-horizon R&D, once fully fault-tolerant machines arrive.Community insights for technology application timeline Quantum impact is expected within 10 years across most energy segments, with grid infrastructure leading near-term adoption. Phased but uneven deployment maturity is expected across all sub-sectors. The power and grid sub-sector shows the strongest five year outlook, while renewables are expected to be longer-term. Moderate acceleration is expected in oil and gas and utilities. Timeline for quantum application across energy and utilities sector FIGURE 4 Power & grid infrastructure (transmission, distribution, storage)Oil & gas (upstream, midstream, downstream)Utilities (electric & gas, water & wastewater, heating & cooling)Renewable (solar, wind, hydro, geo, bioenergy)61%32%6% 33%57%10% 32%55%13% 13%84%3% 5 years 10 years More Source: Community survey, World Economic Forum’s Quantum for Energy and Utilities Working Group, February 2026. 8 Quantum for Energy and Utilities: Key Opportunities for Energy Transition