IonQ and EPB of Chattanooga have announced a $22 million partnership to establish the EPB Quantum Center, positioning Chattanooga, Tennessee, as the first U.S. city to offer commercial quantum computing and networking services. The center will house IonQ’s Forte Enterprise quantum computer and expand EPB’s existing quantum infrastructure, including the EPB Quantum Network powered by Qubitekk. This initiative aims to accelerate the development of practical quantum applications, particularly in energy grid optimization, and to foster a quantum-ready workforce through specialized training programs.
EPB’s Quantum Network, launched in 2022, is the nation’s first commercially available quantum network designed for flexibility and ease of access. It features a software-configurable architecture, allowing users to build, test, and run quantum applications using foundational quantum equipment. The network supports various use cases, including quantum security applications and equipment interoperability testing. Notably, it hosted Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s first run on a commercial quantum network, demonstrating its capability to support advanced quantum research and development.
- Strategic Partnership: IonQ and EPB collaborate to establish the EPB Quantum Center, integrating quantum computing and networking resources.
- Advanced Infrastructure: The center will feature IonQ’s Forte Enterprise quantum computer and expand upon EPB’s existing quantum network capabilities.
- Workforce Development: The initiative includes specialized training programs to develop a quantum-ready workforce in Tennessee.
- Research Collaborations: EPB’s Quantum Network has previously supported research from institutions like Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
- Commercial Applications: The network is designed to facilitate the commercialization of quantum technologies by providing a flexible, secure, and accessible platform for developers and researchers.
- In 2022, EPB launched the nation’s first commercially available quantum network, EPB Quantum Network powered by Qubitekk. Notably, the network hosted Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s first run on a commercial quantum network, demonstrating its capability to support advanced quantum research. EPB’s ongoing collaborations with institutions like the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga further underscore its commitment to advancing quantum technology and education.