A new national quantum computing facility, which will house 12 of the high-powered computers, has officially opened as a site for research by both public and private firms.

The National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) is based at the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire, and was officially opened by Science Minister Lord Vallance.

Quantum computing is seen as a key tool in the development of new technologies and solutions to existing problems.

Vastly more powerful than ordinary computers, quantum computers are able to tackle complex problems much more quickly and have the potential to solve computational problems even today’s supercomputers currently cannot.

By making its facilities available to users from across industry and academia ... this centre will help them solve some of the biggest challenges we face

The new centre will have more than 70 staff based there and, unlike many similar sites around the world, will not be restricted to government ownership or use.

The Government said it would also host the world’s first dedicated quantum apprenticeship programme, as well as summer placements and PhD studentships.

It is hoped the centre can help to solve a number of key issues, with focus to be placed on areas including optimising the energy grid, faster drug discovery, climate prediction and advances in artificial intelligence.

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

“By making its facilities available to users from across industry and academia, and with its focus on making quantum computers practically useable at scale, this centre will help them solve some of the biggest challenges we face, whether it’s delivering advances in healthcare, enhancing energy efficiency, tackling climate change or inventing new materials.

“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.”