A new National Quantum Computing Centre has officially been opened, housing 12 state of the art quantum computers which the UK government claims will vastly accelerate the development of quantum technology.

The 4,000 square metre facility, based at the Harwell Campus in Didcot, is set to push the boundaries of what’s possible using emerging quantum technology, with the UK government offering open access to industry, academia, and other sectors across the country to drive innovation.

The government claims that unlike the new centre’s global counterparts, the NQCC’s systems are not restricted to state ownership or use, allowing anyone with a valid use case to harness its cutting-edge capabilities. 

The hope is that by fostering collaboration, the NQCC will become a driver of quantum breakthroughs, delivering benefits for both the public and private sectors, including the development of quantum hardware, software, and applications.

Through its user engagement programme, SparQ, the Centre is already working with industry in sectors like energy, healthcare, and financial services to explore practical uses for quantum technology, which could include everything from accelerating drug discovery, to predictions around climate patterns, or even improving artificial intelligence.

Opening the new Centre, the science minister, Lord Vallance, said: “The National Quantum Computing Centre marks a vital step forward in the UK’s efforts to advance quantum technologies. 

“The innovations that will emerge from the work the NQCC will do will ultimately improve lives across the country and ensure the UK seizes the economic benefits of its leadership in quantum technologies.”

As a central part of the UK’s ten-year quantum programme, the Centre is meant to play a key role in building the UK’s quantum ecosystem, including an array of opportunities for students, like the world’s first dedicated quantum apprenticeship programme, 30 PhD studentships, summer placements, and crash courses for those in industry.

The Centre will be supported initially through a £93 million UKRI investment, however in time the government hopes that the new tech can be commercialised, as well as cut costs in areas like the NHS, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.

UKRI Chief Executive, Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser, said: “With our rich national heritage in quantum computing research the UK is well-placed to lead the development of this transformative new technology, which has such huge potential across society and the economy.

“The UK National Quantum Computing Centre is central to this critical work, bringing together internationally-leading researchers and technologists from across academia and industry to ensure that the UK’s quantum computing ecosystem thrives, delivering benefits to people across the UK and beyond.”

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The government has already made considerable efforts to position the UK as a leader in quantum technology, including the recent launch of five quantum hubs supported by a £106 million investment, with new facilities opened at both Heriot Watt and the University of Glasgow.

Prior to the election, the Conservative government also made moves in quantum, with another £45 million of investment in projects such as the development of a high-tech brain scanner using quantum technology, and a smart navigation system for trains that uses quantum sensors to save costs and enhance safety.

High levels of investment in quantum technology are expected to continue, with estimates projecting total investment to exceed $29bn (£22bn) by 2030, despite anticipated low returns.