Netherlands to host one of 9 EU quantum computers in Amsterdam
The Netherlands will host one of nine European quantum computers. It will be located at the Amsterdam Science Park and integrated with the Dutch supercomputer Snellius, the European High-Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC JU) announced.
According to SURF, the IT innovation association that will do the actual hosting, the quantum computer will lay a new foundation for the future digital infrastructure of the Netherlands. “Not only does this give our researchers and students access to this groundbreaking technology, but at the same time we strengthen the Dutch position in the field of quantum development,” said SURF CEO Ron Augustus.
The Netherlands already has a leading position in quantum developments, SURF said. Hosting a quantum computer linked to Snellius will further develop knowledge of this “pioneering technique” as well as encourage the adoption of quantum in various sectors, the association said. “Quantum computers have the potential to perform specific tasks much faster than regular supercomputers. This could accelerate future research on complex models such as climate or proteins.”
EuroHPC JU also sees uses for quantum computing in improving traffic flows in smart cities, simulating molecular structures to develop new medicines and materials, and enhancing cryptographic algorithms for better cybersecurity.
The quantum system in the Netherlands will be based on semiconductor spin qubits. According to SURF, a big advantage of this technology is that it is very compatible with the existing and highly developed semiconductor industry in the Netherlands. “Thus, this technology can be scaled up more easily.”
The quantum computer will cost an estimated 20 million euros. The European Union will cover half of that amount. If all goes according to plan, the quantum computer will be delivered to the Amsterdam Science Park in the summer of 2026.
