Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) organized the first intensive quantum computing training program, in cooperation with Microsoft. The program is part of DEWA’s efforts to employ the latest technologies. The one-week program was held at DEWA’s Sustainable Building in Al Quoz.
The program, which is the first of its kind outside the US, aimed to develop new solutions based on quantum computing for the production, transmission and distribution of energy and water, as well as in conservation efforts. It also aimed to identify the challenges that quantum computing can deal with, considering its immense power compared to current computers.
“We are working to achieve the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to anticipate the future and keep pace with the Fourth Industrial Revolution to provide the best government services. DEWA will disrupt the entire business of public utilities by becoming the world’s first digital utility using autonomous systems for renewable-energy and its storage, and expanding AI adoption and digital services. This supports the Dubai 10X Initiative, which mandates the Government of Dubai to be a global leader that is 10 years ahead of all other cities,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.
DEWA is working closely with Microsoft to develop a quantum strategy, program quantum algorithms, build capacity, and test the solutions within Microsoft’s Azure platform even before the development of general-purpose quantum computers. This will ensure a seamless migration for these solutions when quantum computers become widely available, around the world.
“We are pleased to be the first utility in the world and the first organization outside the US to participate in Microsoft’s Quantum Computing program to leverage its enormous capabilities. This will improve the efficiency of the generation, transmission, and distribution of energy and water and enhance Dubai’s infrastructure according to the highest international standards,” Mr Al Tayer explained.
The collaboration will give DEWA early access to Microsoft’s quantum computing research and capabilities to develop solutions that improve performance, productivity, and the quality of services.
