§16.Department of Energy quantum information science research program
This section revises the Department of Energy's quantum information science research program under the National Quantum Initiative Act by expanding it from a basic research program to a research, development, and demonstration program on quantum information science, engineering, and technology. (As background, the program coordinates DOE efforts to advance quantum information science, which enables breakthroughs in computing, sensing, communications, and related fields with applications in energy, manufacturing, cybersecurity, and more.)
The section further amends program activities in subsection (b) to (1) require operation of National Quantum Information Science Research Centers to accelerate breakthroughs and maintain infrastructure for researchers and industry; (2) direct cooperative research with industry, national laboratories, and academia in specified fields (e.g., quantum computational science including AI and machine learning, quantum communications and networking, quantum sensing, materials science, and energy applications such as electric grid management); (3) expand student research experiences and training to cover engineering, technology, and those fields; (4) add coordination with DOE offices including Electricity, Cybersecurity/Energy Security/Emergency Response, Fossil Energy and Carbon Management, and Technology Transitions; (5) include other relevant efforts defined by the Secretary; and (6) leverage existing federal research and commercial quantum hardware and software.
The section also adds subsection (c) requiring the Secretary to submit to Congress, not later than one year after enactment, a report with a 10-year strategic plan for hybrid high-performance computing systems integrating quantum supercomputers, AI, machine learning, exascale capabilities, diverse quantum modalities, and cloud access to commercial quantum resources (consistent with the QUEST program); and subsection (d) directing industry outreach to educate the energy and quantum sectors, accelerate U.S. quantum capabilities for energy optimization, advance domestic supply chains and manufacturing, facilitate commercialization from national laboratories and the Quantum Consortium, and promote small and medium-sized businesses and startups.