The U.S. Department of Energy plans to build a quantum computer by 2026, marking a strategic shift in its approach to quantum technology.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DoE) has announced plans to create a fully functional quantum computer intended for scientific computing within a three-year timeframe. This initiative was highlighted by Deputy Science Secretary Dario Gil during a recent meeting of the Scientific Advisory Committee (SCAC).
Gil stated, "By 2028, we will unveil the first generation of fault-tolerant quantum computers capable of conducting scientifically valid quantum computations."
The quantum computer will be integrated into a specialized complex at one of the ten national laboratories operated by the DoE, although specific details about the project remain undisclosed.
Yale physicist Steven Girvin commented on the ambitious timeline, describing it as "very optimistic but worthy." He noted advancements in error correction techniques but acknowledged the ongoing challenges in achieving full fault tolerance in quantum systems.
The DoE, which boasts an annual budget of $8.4 billion, is the leading funder of physical sciences research in the United States. This new focus on quantum computing marks a notable change in the agency's strategy, which previously refrained from endorsing specific technological pathways.
Related Initiatives
During the SCAC meeting, Gil also established a working group to develop strategies supporting the government’s AI initiative, known as the “Genesis Mission,” which was signed into action by former President Donald Trump in November 2025. Recommendations from SCAC regarding computing resources and key personnel are anticipated by July.
Additionally, Gil has requested the committee to generate an updated list of significant scientific projects for funding, moving away from a list that has not been revised since 2003. The new list is expected to be declassified and will align with the goals of the Genesis Mission.
Top government priorities currently encompass advanced computing research, energy research, biology, ecology, nuclear fusion, and high-energy physics. Notably, the Turing Award was presented for the first time in March 2026 for contributions to quantum informatics, awarded to scientists Gilles Brassard and Charles Bennett.
