The emergence of quantum energy science

Abstract

Quantum engineering seeks to create novel technologies based on the exploitation of distinctly nonclassical behaviors such as quantum coherence. The vast majority of currently pursued applications fall into the domain of quantum information science, with quantum computing as the most visible subdomain. However, other applications of quantum engineering are fast emerging. Here, we review the deployment of quantum engineering principles in the fields of solar energy, batteries, and nuclear energy. We identify commonalities across quantum engineering approaches in those apparently disparate fields and draw direct parallels to quantum information science. We find that a shared knowledge base is forming, which de facto corresponds to a new domain that we refer to as ‘quantum energy science’. Quantum energy science bears the promise of substantial performance improvements across energy technologies such as organic solar cells, batteries, and nuclear fusion. The recognition of this emerging domain may be of great relevance to actors concerned with energy innovation. It may also benefit active researchers in this domain by increasing visibility and motivating the deployment of resources and institutional support.