Up to 90% more energy-efficient: scientists develop breakthrough to cut quantum computer power consumption

Engineers at Chalmers University of Technology have unveiled a groundbreaking microwave amplifier for quantum computers that reduces energy consumption by up to 90% compared to current technologies.

This innovation addresses one of the biggest challenges in quantum computing: decoherence caused by thermal noise. Reading the state of qubits requires extremely sensitive microwave amplifiers, but traditional designs generate heat, which disrupts quantum states. The new amplifier activates only during the readout process, eliminating continuous power draw and significantly reducing the risk of errors.

“This is the most sensitive transistor-based amplifier available today,” said Yin Zeng, lead author of the study published in IEEE Transactions on Microwave Theory and Techniques.

The device switches on in just 35 nanoseconds and amplifies signals instantly without compromising accuracy.

Unlike conventional continuous-mode amplifiers, the Chalmers design operates in pulsed mode, making it more suitable for scaling quantum computers without excess heat or interference. It’s controlled by an intelligent system based on genetic programming.

This development paves the way for scalable quantum systems in medicine, cryptography, AI, and materials science—areas where stability and energy efficiency are essential.