QScale project tackles quantum computing scaling limits

A new Finnish research initiative is aiming to overcome one of the key barriers to scalable quantum computing by developing advanced signal control and optical technologies.

The QScale project, coordinated by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland in collaboration with Aalto University and Tampere University, has received funding from Business Finland’s Rise to Challenge programme. The three-year project begins in September 2026 with a total budget of approximately €6.9 million.

Researchers will focus on improving the energy efficiency and scalability of quantum computing systems through ultra-precise signal technology combined with optical control methods and superconducting circuits designed to generate low-noise electrical signals.

Current quantum computing architectures face significant challenges when scaling beyond around 1,000 qubits, with energy demands increasing substantially as systems grow. The project aims to address these limitations by developing new approaches to signal generation and control that could support much larger systems in the future.

Optical telecommunications technologies will also be explored as a way to link quantum and classical computing systems, potentially improving the efficiency of high-performance and AI-related workloads.

The long-term goal is to enable scalable quantum computing platforms that could be commercialised in the 2030s, first for superconducting quantum systems and later for broader applications across advanced computing and electronics.

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