Europe’s HPC Momentum Is Real
High-performance computing now plays a central role in Europe’s digital progress. It supports research, science, industry, and public services. Today, Europe stands among global leaders in this field.
A decade ago, Europe barely featured in global HPC rankings. That has changed fast. European systems now hold several places in the world’s top ten supercomputers. This shift marks a major turning point.
In September, Europe inaugurated JUPITER in Jülich, Germany. It is Europe’s first exascale supercomputer. Another exascale system, Alice Recoque, is under deployment in France. At the same time, new mid-range systems are set to launch in Greece, Sweden, Hungary, and Ireland.
Alongside this growth, Europe is building 19 AI Factories. These give startups and small firms access to advanced AI computing. Additionally, Europe is now linking quantum computers directly to supercomputers. This hybrid approach opens new paths for research and industry.
All of this works because countries pool resources through EuroHPC JU. More members join each year. As a result, Europe continues to strengthen its shared commitment to supercomputing.
The Main Challenges Holding HPC Back
Despite progress, two problems remain. First is fragmentation. Second is access.
In the past, countries developed HPC at very different speeds. This gap limited Europe’s global position. EuroHPC JU now addresses this by building a shared system. Centres of Excellence and National Competence Centres connect skills, tools, and people across borders.
Access posed another major hurdle. HPC often requires deep expertise and large budgets. That kept it out of reach for many users. Small labs, startups, and public bodies struggled most.
To fix this, EuroHPC JU funds the EuroCC network and several Centres of Excellence. These groups actively support new users. They explain how HPC can solve real problems. Another initiative, FF Plus, helps small firms with funding, technical help, and business guidance.
At the same time, demand for AI compute keeps rising. To meet this need, EuroHPC JU launched AI Factories and AI Factory Antennas. Together, they offer compute, training, and data support in one place.
Soon, access will become even simpler. The new Federation platform will act as a single entry point for HPC, AI, and quantum systems. In parallel, the HPC in Europe Portal brings training and support into one clear space.
What EuroHPC JU Does and Why It Matters
EuroHPC JU launched in 2018 as a joint legal and funding body. It brings together the EU, member states, and partners. Its goal is clear. Make Europe a global leader in supercomputing.
So far, EuroHPC JU has procured 11 supercomputers across Europe. Researchers, public users, and companies can access them free of charge through open calls. This access supports science, industry, and society.
EuroHPC JU also builds Europe’s quantum computing base. It has already procured six quantum systems and co-funded two more. All come from European companies and operate in Europe. Two additional systems are on the way.
These machines cover a wide range of quantum approaches. They include neutral atoms, trapped ions, superconducting circuits, and photonics. This mix allows users to explore many hybrid workflows and future use cases.
In parallel, EuroHPC JU oversees 19 AI Factories, supported by 13 Antennas. These centres provide tailored help to startups and SMEs.
Finally, the JU funds research projects across the full HPC supply chain. This includes processors, software, applications, and skills. The aim is long-term European autonomy.
How EuroHPC JU Accelerates Progress
EuroHPC JU works on several fronts at once. Access, technology, skills, and sustainability all matter.
Free access remains a key driver. Over the past five years, more than 2,300 projects received support. In total, EuroHPC JU allocated over 145 million compute hours. These projects cover areas like climate science, drug discovery, and engineering.
Another focus is European technology. So far, 58 research projects received funding. Examples include the European Processor Initiative and the DARE project. These efforts build processors and accelerators designed in Europe. Other projects improve interconnects, which are vital for both HPC and AI.
Skills also receive strong support. The EUMaster4HPC programme trains future experts through top universities and HPC centres. Students gain real experience while studying advanced topics.
Sustainability runs through everything. Hosting sites must meet strict energy standards and report efficiency metrics. All EuroHPC systems use liquid cooling. In several cases, waste heat supports nearby communities.
Many systems also run on clean energy. LUMI uses hydro power. MareNostrum 5 relies on renewables. MeluXina uses energy from waste wood.
Users also receive feedback on energy use. This helps them run simulations more efficiently. On the software side, EuroHPC JU funds low-power design and energy-aware applications.
Key Achievements Over the Past Year
The last 12 months marked a major shift, especially in AI.
After a legal update in summer 2024, the AI Factories programme moved fast. This created a network of 32 connected hubs across Europe.
These centres act as one-stop shops. They give users access to AI-focused supercomputing. Startups and researchers can now build, test, and scale advanced models.
Progress also continued in quantum computing. Two systems, PIAST Q in Poland and VLQ in Czechia, entered operation. Early access has already begun. Users explore applications in chemistry, optimisation, and machine learning.
Finally, EuroHPC JU secured future connectivity. A new contract with GÉANT delivers ultra-fast and secure links across Europe. This ensures the entire ecosystem stays connected.
Together, these steps keep EuroHPC JU at the centre of Europe’s digital and scientific ambitions.
