IBM Opens First European Quantum Data Center

IBM, in collaboration with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, has launched its first quantum data center in Europe, marking a significant step in the region’s push for quantum technology leadership. Located in Ehningen, Germany, this is IBM’s second quantum data center globally, following the first one in the United States. The new facility will offer cloud-based access to IBM’s most advanced quantum systems, including the upcoming IBM Quantum Heron-based system, which boasts 16 times better performance and 25 times faster speed compared to the 2022 models.

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Chancellor Scholz emphasized Germany’s commitment to becoming a global quantum leader, highlighting the government's €2 billion investment in quantum technologies since 2020. “This new IBM Quantum Data Center strengthens Germany’s role in the global quantum race and provides a foundation for innovation and growth in the quantum sector,” said Scholz.

The Ehningen center offers access to quantum systems for over 80 European enterprises and research institutions, including Bosch, Volkswagen, E.ON, Crédit Mutuel, and Ikerbasque. These organizations are leveraging IBM’s quantum technology to explore advanced applications in material sciences, sustainable mobility, energy optimization, and healthcare.

The IBM Quantum Heron chip, set to be deployed at the center, enables the discovery of complex quantum algorithms and accelerates the journey toward "quantum advantage"—the point at which quantum computers outperform classical systems in solving practical problems.

“Germany and Europe are poised to play a leading role in quantum innovation,” said Arvind Krishna, IBM’s Chairman and CEO. “With this data center, we are fostering collaboration and strengthening the European quantum ecosystem.”

IBM’s dual quantum data centers—in the U.S. and now Europe—are critical for driving the development of algorithms that could revolutionize industries and bring real-world quantum computing solutions closer to reality.

Germany's Quantum Ambitions

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Chancellor Scholz emphasized Germany’s commitment to becoming a global quantum leader, highlighting the government's €2 billion investment in quantum technologies since 2020. “This new IBM Quantum Data Center strengthens Germany’s role in the global quantum race and provides a foundation for innovation and growth in the quantum sector,” said Scholz.