Australian scientists have developed the world’s first proof-of-concept quantum battery, marking a huge advancement in energy storage technology. The findings of CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and colleagues from RMIT University and the University of Melbourne have been published in Light: Science & Applications.
CSIRO’s clean lab for engineering prototype quantum batteries. Image Credit: CSIRO
This first-of-its-kind quantum version, much like a traditional battery, can charge, store, and discharge energy.
Although fully functional quantum batteries do not yet exist, they could eventually reshape how energy is stored and used in the future.
Dr. James Quach, CSIRO’s quantum science and technologies science leader, 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. The research validates the exciting potential of quantum batteries for unprecedented efficient and rapid energy storage.
Dr. James Quach, Quantum Science and Technologies Science Leader, CSIRO
Scientists have demonstrated a prototype quantum battery that can store energy far longer than it takes to charge, offering an early glimpse into next-generation energy storage.
Superposition and entanglement, two defining features of quantum mechanics, play a central role in how quantum batteries operate. In contrast, today’s conventional batteries rely primarily on chemical reactions to store and release energy.
The device developed by the researchers is wirelessly charged using a laser and is built around a multi-layered organic microcavity structure.
Using advanced spectroscopy techniques, the team confirmed the prototype’s charging behavior, showing that it could retain energy for six orders of magnitude longer than the time it took to charge.
Overall, the study supports key theoretical predictions about quantum batteries and offers a compelling look at how energy storage could evolve with quantum technology.
Our proof-of-concept device showcases rapid, scalable charging and energy storage at room temperature, laying the groundwork for next-gen energy solutions. While there is still much work to be done in quantum battery research, we have made an important move towards realizing the possibilities. 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.
Dr. James Quach, Quantum Science and Technologies Science Leader, CSIRO
CSIRO is looking for possible development partners.
Sources:
Journal Reference:
Hymas, K. et al. (2025) Superextensive electrical power from a quantum battery. Light: Science & Applications. DOI: 10.1038/s41377-026-02240-6. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41377-026-02240-6.
CSIRO