Qlimate and Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) announced that FFI would become a foundational member of the Qlimate Initiative to explore quantum computing solutions in green H₂.

Qlimate, backed by PsiQuantum has secured substantial capacity on the early machines. Qlimate has a singular focus on partnering with leaders in decarbonization to maximize climate impact and facilitating their access to the first generation of fault-tolerant quantum computers.

FFI and Qlimate entered into a membership agreement to explore quantum solutions in the field of green H₂. FFI Chairman Dr Andrew Forrest AO and Jeremy O’Brien, co-founder and CEO of PsiQuantum, jointly announced the ambition at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

FFI’s membership in Qlimate is the first step towards a broader strategy to develop algorithms solving computational bottlenecks in modelling proton exchange membrane technology and pulse electrolysis – key enablers for more efficient green H₂ production – with a view to building and scaling quantum computing-enabled green H₂ ventures.

Dr Forrest said, “The Qlimate initiative with leading quantum computing company PsiQuantum is critical to lowering emissions through green energy production, and this partnership, through greater knowledge, will help to achieve that faster. PsiQuantum’s fault-tolerant quantum computer could be a leading light in technology for green hydrogen, and FFI as a first mover in green tech will help make it happen.”

“We are delighted that FFI shares our vision and is willing to take ambitious steps towards delivering some of the most promising decarbonization tools for potentially taking years off the path to net zero – helping the world to get back onto the target 1.5°C trajectory,” said Jeremy O’Brien, co-founder and CEO of PsiQuantum.

“Through this joint effort, we expect to improve the efficiency of green hydrogen electrolysis and significantly decrease production costs, helping build a viable green hydrogen economy. Given the transformational nature of this type of computing, not pursuing it is a bet that industry can’t afford not to make.”