UK Joins EU Supercomputing Initiative to Bridge Tech Gap
In a bid to address concerns about the UK falling behind in the global race for processing power, the British government has announced its participation in the European High Performance Computing Joint Undertaking (EuroHPC). This move will provide British tech companies and researchers access to some of the most powerful supercomputers in Europe.
EuroHPC: Pooling Access to Cutting-Edge Supercomputers
EuroHPC, a collaborative initiative within the EU, allows businesses and scientists to apply for grants to utilize eight powerful supercomputers across Europe. These supercomputers play crucial roles in various fields, such as drug discovery, artificial intelligence, and weather simulation. Among them are machines located in Finland, Italy, and Spain, which rank among the top ten most powerful supercomputers globally.
Addressing the UK's Supercomputing Gap
The decision to join EuroHPC comes in the wake of concerns raised by a government-commissioned report, which highlighted the UK's decline in supercomputer capacity. With the UK's most powerful supercomputer, Archer 2, ranking 39th globally, there is a pressing need to bolster the nation's capabilities in this vital area. The report underscored the significance of investment in supercomputing to maintain the UK's position as a leader in science and technology.
Rejoining EuroHPC and Collaborative Efforts
Although the UK left EuroHPC following its departure from the European Union in 2021, it is now rejoining the initiative as part of its participation in the Horizon Europe science program. This move reflects the government's commitment to fostering collaboration where it deems it beneficial. Moreover, the UK's membership in EuroHPC does not entail additional taxpayer funds upfront. However, if British researchers or businesses secure grants from the program, the government will match the funding.
Strengthening Research and Innovation
In addition to joining EuroHPC, the UK recently became a part of the EU's semiconductor research program, aimed at facilitating advanced research in microchip technology. The government has allocated £1.5 billion to enhance supercomputing facilities across the UK, with plans for AI computing hubs in Bristol and Cambridge, along with the development of an "exascale" supercomputer in Edinburgh.
Unlock the potential of AI
Michelle Donelan, the Secretary for Science, Innovation, and Technology, emphasized the importance of supercomputers in advancing research and innovation, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence. She underscored the government's commitment to leveraging AI to drive economic growth and improve various aspects of public life, from healthcare to energy security.
