Microsoft and DEWA Bring Quantum Computing to Dubai

Microsoft and DEWA Bring Quantum Computing to Dubai
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The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) announced plans to work with Microsoft to develop new quantum-based solutions to address energy optimization and other challenges where classical computers have serious limitations, making it the first organization outside the U.S. to participate in the Microsoft Quantum program.

As part of the deal, Microsoft will work closely with DEWA to identify the challenges where quantum computing will have the greatest impact. Energy optimization, for example, requires far too much traditional computing power to identify the ideal balance of resources from different energy sources to meet ever-changing consumption needs in real time.

As part of initiative to use advances in technology to deliver new or existing services in radically different ways, DEWA wants to reimagine its role as a utility company by launching “Digital DEWA,“ the digital arm of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, and is leveraging Microsoft Quantum to help accelerate its goals. In addition, the two organizations will look at ways to support the Dubai EXPO 2020, an event that brings people from all over the world to share ideas.

Working with Microsoft, the Quantum Development Kit toolset and Azure quantum-inspired services, DEWA will be able to program and test quantum algorithms, then apply those quantum solutions within the existing Azure platform to achieve real-world impacts even before the development of a general-purpose quantum computer. This work will also provide DEWA with a seamless migration to using Microsoft’s quantum computer once it is available. The two companies will also work to develop a quantum strategy, including understanding where quantum optimization methods can be applied for greatest impact in Dubai.