The VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland has started a project to build Finland’s first quantum computer.
The project will be a three-phased plan to create a base for future applications using quantum computing. This technology is slated to change many sectors of electronics including the industrial sector while bringing new research opportunities over the next few years.
Quantum computers are touted as a significant leap forward with computing power and the ability to solve problems that are impossible for current supercomputers.
The goal is to collaborate with universities as well as Finnish companies from a variety of sectors during the three phases of implementation and application. The project will run for several years and its total cost is estimated at about $21 million to $27 million.
The first phase will last about a year and aims to get a minimum five-qubit quantum computer in working order, but the project aims to develop a more powerful machine with a larger number of qubits.
“In the future, we’ll encounter challenges that cannot be met using current methods. Quantum computing will play an important role in solving these kinds of problems,” said Antti Vasara, CEO of VTT, in a statement. “For example, the quantum computers of the future will be able to accurately model viruses and pharmaceuticals, or design new materials in a way that is impossible with traditional methods.”
VTT said that with the COVID-19 pandemic shocking the Finnish and world economy, quantum computing will help safeguard against future economic shocks and allow for future competitiveness as well as create demand for Finnish companies’ products and services.
