IBM has unveiled plans to open its first European data centre to provide a platform for quantum computing.

The data centre, which will be located at IBM’s facility in Ehningen, Germany, is scheduled to be operational in 2024. It will host multiple IBM quantum computing systems, each with ‘utility scale quantum processors’ of more than 100 qubits.

IBM has said the site will facilitate access to quantum computing for companies, research institutions and government agencies and “will serve as IBM Quantum’s European cloud region.”

“Europe has some of the world’s most advanced users of quantum computers, and interest is only accelerating with the era of utility scale quantum processors,” said Jay Gambetta, IBM Fellow and Vice President of IBM Quantum.

“The planned quantum data centre and associated cloud region will give European users a new option as they seek to tap the power of quantum computing in an effort to solve some of the world’s most challenging problems.”

Ana Paula Assis, IBM General Manager for EMEA, added, “Our quantum data centre in Europe is an integral piece of our global endeavour. It will provide new opportunities for our clients to collaborate side-by-side with our scientists in Europe, as well as their own clients, as they explore how best to apply quantum in their industry.”

The data is IBM’s second quantum data centre and quantum cloud region, alongside its New York facility.

IBM’s Quantum Network links more than 60 organisations across Europe accessing quantum hardware and software via the cloud. The IBM Quantum European cloud region will enable IBM to collaborate with European industry, academia and government leaders to advance quantum computing Europe.