The second annual International Quantum Energy Conference (ICQE 2025), sponsored by the Anthropocene Institute, took place at the Centro Culturale Altinate in Padua, Italy, from June 3 to 6. The event brought together researchers, industry experts, and policymakers to discuss and showcase cutting-edge research at the intersection of theoretical quantum physics and potential applications, from quantum batteries to quantum computing.
The conference broadly explored key topics such as quantum computing optimization, quantum thermodynamics, energy-efficient quantum computing infrastructures, innovative quantum energy storage solutions like quantum batteries, and quantum communication networks. Attendees participated in thought-provoking sessions that explored quantum technology’s current and potential capabilities, asking critical questions and identifying pathways for future inquiry while collaboratively thinking through opportunities to harness quantum phenomena for real-world applications.
Industry roundtable discussions included representatives from quantum computing companies, research institutions, and investment firms. These panels discussed various issues, including the current readiness of quantum technologies for market integration, the economic implications of widespread adoption, and necessary policy frameworks to ensure responsible innovation and effective IP management.
The beautiful city of Padua, renowned for its rich academic tradition dating back to the University of Padua’s founding in 1222, provided an inspiring backdrop for the event. Historically a hub of revolutionary scientific inquiry, with physics giants like Galileo Galilei, Padua continues its legacy as a city deeply committed to scholarship and research.
The Anthropocene Institute, a conference sponsor, is dedicated to accelerating sustainable technological advancements to tackle global environmental challenges. By supporting cutting-edge quantum energy research, the Institute aims to foster transformative innovations that could significantly impact computational power, energy efficiency, and resource management, aligning with its mission to work through environmental challenges through policy, science, and technology innovations.