Pasqal and Aramco to develop quantum computing applications for energy industry

Pasqal, a developer of neutral atom-based quantum technology, and Aramco on Thursday announced the signing of an MoU to collaborate on quantum computing capabilities and applications in the energy sector.

The agreement seeks to accelerate the design and development of quantum-based machine learning models as well as identifying and advancing other use cases for the technology across the Saudi Aramco value chain, the companies said in a statement.

Both Pasqal and Aramco plan to explore ways for collaborating and cultivating the quantum information sciences ecosystem in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, they said.

Aramco is focused on pioneering the use of quantum computing in the energy sector, positioning itself as an early beneficiary of quantum advantage over classical computers, the statement said.

Quantum computing has emerged as a powerful tool used to address a wide range of upstream, midstream and downstream challenges in the oil and gas industry, including network optimisation and management, reaction network generation and refinery linear programming.

“This is a very promising initiative for Pasqal and a perfect opportunity for us to show not only the energy sector, but the entire world, what our technology can do,” said Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO of Pasqal. “It further confirms that our neutral atom technology is one of the most promising in the world.”

The collaboration between Pasqal and Aramco will explore potential applications for quantum computing and artificial intelligence in these areas as well, the companies said. As part of the project, Pasqal will provide both its quantum expertise and platform to develop new use cases. The companies will also explore the applicability and benefit of augmenting Aramco’s training programs with Pasqal’s quantum technologies.

Pasqal aims to establish operations in the Middle East, and grow its business both in Saudi Arabia and across the region, it said.