US Department of Energy Sets 2028 Target for Quantum Computers Despite Scale-Up Challenges

The US Department of Energy launched the Quantum Genesis initiative with a 2028 target for quantum computers to contribute to scientific breakthroughs in chemistry, materials science, plasma physics and high-energy physics. The program will run a competition and construct a national quantum supercomputing facility.

It forms part of the larger Genesis Mission that distributes funding to researchers.

Darío Gil, under secretary for science at the DoE, said he has confidence that existing building blocks suffice. He cited recent advances in qubit construction and error-correction algorithms, and noted that AI could help optimize quantum computer control. Juliette Peyronnet at Alice & Bob called the 2028 goal ambitious but not impossible.

Paul Stimers at the Quantum Industry Coalition said several firms have already announced plans to deliver scientifically useful, error-proof machines by 2028 or shortly thereafter. The announcement follows two executive orders on quantum technology signed by President Donald Trump and a $2 billion investment by the US Department of Commerce in several quantum computing companies.

Some technologies referenced in the orders, including quantum sensors, have already reached commercial viability.

Darío Gil acknowledged the scale of the required increase in system size and complexity. Paul Stimers noted that fragile supply chains for exotic components could create additional hurdles. The UK plans to acquire large-scale quantum computers after 2030 through its ProQure program.

Quantum computing sits alongside artificial intelligence at the center of China’s next five-year national development strategy.