Aussie researchers unveil quantum battery prototype

Australian scientists have created a proof‑of‑concept quantum battery that can charge, store and discharge energy, opening new possibilities for faster, more efficient energy storage. Fully functioning quantum batteries do not exist yet, but they could transform how energy is stored and used in the future.

The research by CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and collaborators RMIT University and the University of Melbourne, has been published in Light: Science & Applications. Dr James Quach, quantum science and technologies science leader at CSIRO, led the team that developed the prototype.

“My ultimate ambition is a future where we can charge electric cars much faster than fuel petrol cars, or charge devices over long distances wirelessly. Our 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,” Quach said.

Image caption: CSIRO’s clean lab for engineering prototype quantum batteries. Image credit: CSIRO

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.

This research proves key predictions about these revolutionary devices and offers a glimpse into a possible future powered by quantum energy storage.

“Our proof-of-concept device showcases rapid, scalable charging and energy storage at room temperature, laying the groundwork for next-gen energy solutions. 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,” Quach said.

CSIRO is seeking interest from potential development partners.

Top image caption: The fully functioning proof-of-concept quantum battery engineered by CSIRO and its collaborators, The University of Melbourne and RMIT. Image credit: CSIRO