Request for Information (RFI) on Scientifically Relevant Fault-Tolerant Quantum Computing Systems

The Department of Energy’s Sc Oak Ridge Office has issued a Request for Information (RFI) with solicitation number 892431-26-RFI-0001 to gather industry input on scientifically relevant fault-tolerant quantum computing systems targeting deployment by 2028. This RFI is strictly for market research and does not constitute a solicitation, promise to issue a solicitation, or commitment to award a contract. Responses are due by June 9, 2026, and must be submitted electronically to QCInput@science.doe.gov with the subject line “Scientifically Relevant FTQC Systems,” limited to 20 pages including attachments and cover letters, though an optional appendix is permitted outside this limit. The technical objectives center on systems capable of supporting 150–250 logical qubits with a universal instruction set, executing at least 10⁵ hard operations at a logical error rate of 10⁻⁸ per operation, while addressing hardware and software architecture, fault-tolerant design, scalability pathways, and integration requirements such as power, cooling, and floor space. Respondents are expected to address DOE scientific missions in chemistry, materials, plasma physics, and high energy physics, along with proposed milestones and a technology roadmap extending into the early-to-mid 2030s. Non-recurring engineering costs, lifecycle support, and unit pricing must be detailed, and proposals should include information on partnership models, including potential use of Other Transaction Authority and intellectual property rights under 37 C.F.R. § 401.14 and 2 C.F.R. Part 930. All confidential or proprietary content must be clearly marked with double brackets [[ ]] and labeled as exempt from public disclosure in accordance with 10 C.F.R. § 1004.11. The place of performance is listed as the District of Columbia (20585), with the contracting office located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee (37831), and no set-aside or socioeconomic preferences apply. No formal evaluation factors, award basis, contract clauses, inspection criteria, payment details, or line-item pricing are provided, as this document serves solely to inform future procurement strategy.