Finding new energy resources is a high-stakes challenge. Traditional exploration techniques often rely on indirect data and invasive drilling, making them costly, time-consuming, and environmentally disruptive. Quantum sensing offers a radical new approach.
By measuring magnetic, gravitational, and electric fields with unprecedented precision, quantum sensors can detect subsurface structures and anomalies that reveal the presence of oil, gas, geothermal reservoirs, and other critical resources. This leap in sensitivity enables more accurate exploration while reducing environmental impact.
Case: Subsurface exploration with quantum sensing
Quantum sensors can detect minute variations in physical fields, providing detailed insights into underground formations. Unlike traditional geophysical methods, quantum sensing can identify features invisible to classical tools, allowing for more targeted drilling and resource mapping.
Business value
- Improved accuracy in locating energy resources
Quantum-enhanced measurements reduce uncertainty, increasing the success rate of exploration projects. - Lower exploration costs and environmental impact
Better data leads to fewer exploratory wells, minimizing land use, emissions, and ecological disturbance. - Enhanced decision-making for drilling and site selection
High-resolution sensing enables more strategic and informed investments in resource development. - Competitive edge in resource discovery
Companies that leverage quantum sensing can move faster, spend less, and explore more sustainably.
Technology readiness
Quantum sensors are moving from lab prototypes to early commercial deployment. Field trials in geophysics and energy exploration are already demonstrating their potential, especially in areas where classical sensing struggles, such as beneath urban environments or in geologically complex regions. Scaling up requires ruggedizing the technology and integrating it with existing exploration workflows, but momentum is growing rapidly.
Leading players and experiments
BP and Shell are investigating quantum sensing technologies to improve the precision and efficiency of their exploration operations.
Qnami and SBQuantum are developing commercial-grade quantum sensors based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers and other quantum effects for industrial applications.
Fraunhofer Institute is leading applied research projects in Europe focused on integrating quantum sensors into geophysical exploration systems.
Conclusion to the series
The future of energy will be shaped by bold new technologies that rethink how we generate, distribute, and consume power. Quantum is emerging as a catalyst across every layer of the energy system. From optimizing grid operations to accelerating material discovery for better batteries… from anticipating equipment failures to seeing beneath the surface with unmatched sensing precision, quantum technologies are unlocking real-world solutions to energy’s biggest challenges. This isn’t a distant vision. Research pilots are underway. Industry leaders are investing. The quantum shift in energy has begun.
Belgium, with its robust research ecosystem, industrial base, and commitment to sustainability, is well-positioned to lead. At Quantum Circle, we’re building the connections between business, research, technology, society, and ecosystems to make quantum work for energy and for the planet.
Discover more use cases here.
