The aim of the project is to generate knowledge related to quantum technologies that make it possible to solve problems that classic computing is currently unable to resolve efficiently.
The project objective is to advance the state of the art of quantum algorithms and apply that knowledge to a series of proofs of concept in different strategic sectors of the Spanish economy.
Barcelona 11 January 2022. Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech, S.L. and the companies Amatech, BBVA, DAS Photonics, GMV, Multiverse Computing and Repsol, supported by five research centers (BSC, CSIC, DIPC, ICFO and Tecnalia) and a public university (UPV), have formed the consortium setting up the CUCO project for research into quantum computing applied to strategic industries of the Spanish economy: Energy, Finance, Space, Defense and Logistics.
The CUCO project, subsidized by the CDTI and supported by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation as part of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, is the first major quantum computing project at the national and business level with the objective of progressing in the scientific and technological knowledge of quantum computing algorithms by means of public-private collaboration between companies, research centers and universities, making it possible to accelerate the implementation of these technologies for their use in the medium term. In addition to identifying a series of relevant usage cases in the Spanish economy in which to conduct proofs of concept to study whether quantum computing could improve the performance of classic computing in responding to business needs and proposing the corresponding metrics. In this context, usage cases will be researched in Earth observation, the fight against climate change and the environment, traceability of information throughout the supply chain, optimization and simulation of complex financial calculations, signals intelligence, etc.
Quantum technologies, and specifically quantum computing, are destined to play a disruptive role due to the impact they will have in many areas, given the massive calculation capacity, which could mark the beginning of a new era in technology. Spain cannot afford to be left behind, and it has the capability to lead in this new race.
New R&D+i actions and sustainability
One of the objectives of the project is to position the consortium and its companies as benchmarks in quantum computing in their sectors of application, enabling them to take part in international initiatives such as Quantum Flagship, Horizonte Europa, Digital Europe, or the European Defence Fund.
Through its research into quantum computing, the CUCO project will also have an impact on improving environmental sustainability, as quantum computing promotes more energy-efficient algorithms.
