Tu Delft Team Introduces Access Framework for European Quantum Sovereignty

Lane and colleagues from from the Philosophy and Ethics of Technology at TU Delft reveal that developers of European quantum computing capacity favour contractual and transactional models of access. These choices have sharp implications for Europe’s technological independence, economic future, knowledge security, and commitment to open science. By revealing prevailing framings of access, the study advocates a shift away from zero-sum approaches and towards a more open and collaborative access regime for this emerging technology.

Contractual access dominates current preferences for European quantum computing

A strong focus on contractual access to European quantum computing capacity is evident, contrasting with calls for more open models. The OpenSuperQPlus project is delivering rapid progress, poised to offer larger functioning prototypes, a threshold previously unattainable due to limitations in qubit stability and coherence. Quantum computers leverage the principles of quantum mechanics, superposition and entanglement, to perform calculations beyond the reach of classical computers. Maintaining qubit coherence, the duration for which a qubit retains its quantum state, is a significant engineering challenge. Recent advancements in materials science and control systems are extending coherence times, paving the way for more complex and reliable quantum computations. Consequently, a re-evaluation of access policies is now necessary. Survey results from researchers involved in the project demonstrate that current framings of access lean towards transactional approaches, potentially limiting wider participation and innovation. This preference for contractual arrangements is driven by factors such as the substantial investment required to build and maintain quantum infrastructure, and the desire to recoup these costs through commercial applications.

Pharmaceutical companies are heavily investing in quantum computing for drug discovery, potentially overshadowing socially beneficial applications like climate modelling which receive comparatively less funding. Quantum algorithms, such as Variational Quantum Eigensolver (VQE) and Quantum Approximate Optimisation Algorithm (QAOA), are being explored for simulating molecular interactions and accelerating drug design processes. However, the computational demands of these algorithms, even on near-term quantum devices, remain significant. Initiatives such as the Open Quantum Institute’s Education Consortium demonstrate that early access to quantum resources can support understanding and participation, building important long-term technical capacities and reducing talent bottlenecks. This proactive approach to education and training is crucial for fostering a skilled workforce capable of developing and utilising quantum technologies. Advocates propose a shift towards an access regime founded on openness and solidarity, ensuring equitable benefits and aligning with European values of knowledge security and technological sovereignty. Balancing the need for open access with legitimate security concerns regarding decryption capabilities and strategic technological advantages remains a challenge, requiring careful consideration of how to protect sensitive technologies while fostering innovation and wider participation. The potential of quantum computers to break current encryption standards necessitates robust quantum-resistant cryptography, a field actively under development.

Current contractual access risks hindering wider quantum benefit realisation

Establishing equitable access to forthcoming quantum computing capacity presents a complex challenge, particularly as Europe strives for technological independence and economic competitiveness. A survey of those building quantum computers reveals a current emphasis on contractual arrangements, mirroring established practices for accessing large-scale infrastructure. This approach, however, clashes with the stated ambition of fostering open science and ensuring broader societal benefit from quantum technologies. The concept of ‘technological sovereignty’ is central to European policy, aiming to reduce reliance on external actors and ensure control over critical technologies. Achieving this requires not only developing indigenous quantum capabilities but also establishing a framework for responsible and inclusive access.

Formal agreements amongst those building these machines are not cause for pessimism; they simply reflect established norms for accessing significant infrastructure. These agreements often involve service level agreements (SLAs) and defined usage parameters, ensuring reliable operation and resource allocation. This work remains vital because it proactively identifies a potential misalignment between these practices and broader European goals for technological sovereignty and inclusive innovation. By highlighting this tension, the analysis enables a key conversation about designing an access regime that prioritises openness, societal benefit, and equitable participation in the quantum revolution. The implications extend beyond academic research, impacting industrial innovation and the development of quantum-based solutions for societal challenges.

The team’s findings reveal that current thinking prioritises contractual access, potentially shaping the future direction of the technology and influencing which quantum applications receive investment. This preference impacts not only Europe’s technological independence but also its economic competitiveness and commitment to open science. The OpenSuperQPlus project highlights a vital need to move beyond a transactional view of access. This analysis opens a key question regarding the design of a quantum access regime that balances openness with legitimate security concerns. Consideration must be given to models such as tiered access, where priority is given to research with clear societal benefits, or the establishment of a publicly funded quantum computing resource available to a wider range of users. The long-term success of quantum computing in Europe hinges on fostering a collaborative ecosystem that encourages innovation, promotes inclusivity, and safeguards European values.

The research demonstrated a current preference for contractual and transactional approaches to accessing Europe’s developing quantum computing capacity. This matters because the ways in which access is governed today will influence the future development and application of this technology, potentially impacting Europe’s technological autonomy and economic competitiveness. Researchers surveyed within the OpenSuperQPlus project suggest a need to move beyond this transactional view and consider access regimes based on openness and solidarity. The authors advocate for designing a system that balances legitimate security concerns with wider participation and societal benefit.