The city-owned utility will launch its first quantum node in July 2023 when it opens a shared workspace on the first floor of EPB headquarters in downtown Chattanooga for startup companies and research labs to test and share quantum technologies. EPB began testing quantum technologies five years ago in a research partnership with a San Diego-based technology firm, Qubitekk, that was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a more secure electric grid. Qubitekk developed a means of using EPB’s fiber optic network to connect quantum nodes and allow researchers and startup companies to share information and test technologies on what will be the first commercial quantum network in the world in Chattanooga. The prices and details about hourly rates for using the new network are still being adjusted, but initial interest indicates the network should pay for itself and could be a major business recruitment tool for Chattanooga. Click here to learn more.

Written by Chattanooga Times Free Press BY DAVE FLESSNER