Lagoa gains advanced computing infrastructure for the Azores

NONAGON in Lagoa is now home to Quantum LabAzores, a new regional facility focused on advanced computing and quantum emulation. The opening took place on 31 August in São Miguel, attended by the Vice-President of the Regional Government of the Azores, Artur Lima.

The laboratory combines conventional computing resources, quantum-emulation tools and a Digital Annealer designed to address complex optimisation problems. Information released at the inauguration identified it as the first system of its kind installed in Portugal.

The public investment totals €500,000 and is supported by Portugal's Recovery and Resilience Plan. The project was developed in partnership with FSAS Technologies, Fujitsu's Portuguese operation, and is linked to the regional innovation and digital-transition strategy.

Training is part of the initiative as well: the Regional Fund for Science and Technology has created five doctoral scholarships. The aim is to strengthen research capacity in the Azores while bringing together students, University of the Azores academics and companies seeking to explore practical applications.

For the region, the facility provides a local setting to investigate and use advanced-computing methods for planning and optimisation challenges. Its presence at Lagoa's science and technology park places this capability within an innovation-focused ecosystem and helps ensure that access to emerging tools is not concentrated outside the archipelago.