Leveraging Quantum Annealing for Layout Optimization

Layout optimization problems involve finding the optimal arrangement of elements in order to maximize efficiency. For instance, the wind farm layout optimization (WFLO) problem consists of the best turbine placement to maximize energy production while minimizing wake losses. As its nonlinear and combinatorial nature makes it challenging for traditional optimization methods, alternative approaches such as quantum annealing and quantum-classical hybrid methods offer a promising alternative for tackling such complex problems. Here, WFLO is formulated as a Quadratic Unconstrained Binary Optimization (QUBO) problem using the Jensen wake model. A quantum annealer is compared, the Gurobi solver, and the Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm (QAOA). The quantum annealer provides solutions one order of magnitude faster than Gurobi with at most 3% lower power output, making it suitable for rapid suboptimal approximations. These findings highlight the trade-off between the quality of the solution and the computational time and demonstrate how quantum methods, especially when combined with classical solvers, can contribute to efficient renewable energy optimization.