Quantum

EPB Launches IonQ Forte Enterprise Quantum Computer in Chattanooga

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 18/09/2026, 20:46:44 UTC.

Briefings

EPB launched the IonQ Forte Enterprise quantum computer at its Chattanooga facility on September 18, 2026, marking the first time commercial quantum computing and networking coexist in one location. The system is designed for EPB Quantum Computing Fellows, who will use it to optimize local power grids, with commercial service opening to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in early October. Key partners include IonQ, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Vanderbilt University, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, who collaborated on a hybrid computing project. The initiative is funded by an NIST grant and aims to support workforce development and commercial applications, with projected economic impacts including hundreds of new jobs and a potential $2.7 trillion in value from quantum technology adoption.

Key points

• EPB Quantum Computing Fellows are the first users of the IonQ Forte Enterprise quantum computer, scheduled to begin commercial operations with the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in early October 2026.
• The system is supported by a $4 million NIST grant and includes a classical supercomputer for hybrid quantum-classical computing, with IonQ investing $15 million to expand the Tennessee Quantum Communications Research Center.

Context and limitations

Coverage is limited to the specific launch event and immediate partner activities; future commercial service details beyond early October 2026 are not provided. Projected economic impacts and conference attendance figures are estimates rather than confirmed data.

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