Australian scientists have made a significant leap forward in energy storage technology with the world’s first proof-of-concept quantum battery.
Similar to conventional batteries, this quantum version charges, stores and discharges energy.
Although fully functioning quantum batteries don’t yet exist, the CSIRO in partnership with RMIT University and the University of Melbourne, have engineered a prototype and is seeking development support.
Dr James Quach, quantum science and technologies science leader at CSIRO, said their findings confirm a fundamental quantum effect that's completely counterintuitive: quantum batteries charge faster as they get larger.
“Today’s batteries don’t function like that,” he said.
"The research validates the exciting potential of quantum batteries for unprecedented efficient and rapid energy storage."
Quantum batteries leverage unique properties of quantum mechanics such as superposition and entanglement. In contrast, today’s batteries largely rely on chemical reactions.
The battery the researchers engineered has a multi-layered organic microcavity and is wirelessly charged with a laser.
The team used advanced spectroscopy techniques to confirm the prototype’s charging behaviour, which showed it retained stored energy for six orders of magnitude longer than it took to charge.
“Our proof-of-concept device showcases rapid, scalable charging and energy storage at room temperature, laying the groundwork for next-gen energy solutions," Dr Quach said.
“The next step for quantum batteries right now is extending their energy storage time. If we can overcome that hurdle, we’d be that bit closer to commercially viable quantum batteries."
Meanwhile, China is in the “last mile” of its energy ambitions confirming that as of March 2025, the combined installed capacity of wind and solar power nationwide has exceeded 1.48 billion kilowatts, surpassing thermal power in terms of total installed capacity in history.
However, early-generation wind and solar equipment, designed to last 20 to 25 years, is now entering a phase of large-scale decommissioning.
Figures released earlier today show that by 2050, decommissioned photovoltaic modules will amount to 20 million tonnes, while retired wind turbine blades are expected to reach 3 million tonnes by 2035.
"True green development lies in delivering green power while ultimately achieving a closed loop through comprehensive end-of-life solutions," according to Hou Bo, deputy general manager of China Energy Investment Corporation (CHN Energy) Longyuan Environmental Protection Co., Ltd.
Last year the company put into operation a kiloton-scale photovoltaic module recycling demonstration line, independently developed and constructed by CHN Energy Longyuan Environmental Protection Co., Ltd.
This year it has commenced operations with an annual processing capacity exceeding 10,000 tonnes of decommissioned wind and solar equipment.