Quantum computing is arriving at a moment of relevance for the business energy sector. A new report from S&P Global’s 451 Research unit finds that quantum technologies have shifted from theoretical pursuit to strategic evaluation, driven by soaring compute demand from artificial intelligence. With global data centre power demand projected to nearly double between 2024 and 2030, quantum computing and energy infrastructure are converging into an active planning priority.

The report makes clear that quantum is not a replacement for existing systems but a powerful addition to the compute continuum alongside AI and high-performance computing. Three developments give energy leaders confidence: global quantum investment surpassed $55 billion (€50.7 billion) in 2025; market revenue is projected to grow from $2.5 billion (€2.3 billion) to nearly $9 billion (€8.3 billion) in 2026; and 76% of enterprise respondents in a 451 Research survey expect quantum to deliver material value within five years.

The energy sector stands to benefit across several high-value applications. The S&P Global report identifies grid optimisation, advanced materials discovery for batteries and catalysts, carbon capture chemistry, and nuclear system design as priorities. Early testing is already under way, with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and IonQ collaborating on power grid optimisation. For energy businesses managing variable renewable generation, quantum-enhanced optimisation could enable real-time grid balancing that classical systems struggle to match.

The investment landscape reinforces urgency. S&P Global analysts describe 2025 as igniting interest and 2026 as triggering change, with mergers and acquisitions accelerating and governments deepening national quantum strategies. Fault-tolerant systems capable of broad commercial deployment are expected between 2028 and 2030, giving energy organisations a clear window to build capability, engage vendors, and develop the hybrid quantum-classical workflows the sector will require.

Cybersecurity adds a further strategic dimension. Quantum computers will eventually threaten widely used encryption methods, making quantum-resistant security standards a board-level concern for energy businesses managing critical infrastructure. The report notes this has elevated quantum to a national security priority, with governments linking quantum investment to economic competitiveness and infrastructure resilience. Leaders who plan now will be better placed than those who defer.

Three priorities stand out for C-suite leaders. First, begin exploring hybrid quantum-classical environments, engaging vendors and research institutions to identify near-term returns in grid management and energy modelling. Second, integrate quantum-resistant cybersecurity into infrastructure roadmaps ahead of regulatory requirements. Third, invest in talent by partnering with universities to develop the quantum-ready workforce that commercial deployment will require.

Quantum will not transform energy systems overnight, but the S&P Global analysis is unambiguous: preparation must begin today. Organisations that invest early in hybrid capabilities and align strategies with a compute-driven future will secure a decisive advantage. The window is open. The time to act is now.

(The views expressed by the writer are his/her own and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of BusinessRiver.)