Advanced Computing Portugal 2030

The Advanced Computing Portugal 2030 (ACP.2030) initiative is a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering advanced computing capabilities in Portugal, aligning with European and global trends. Here is an overview of the initiative based on the document:

Overview and Goals

ACP.2030 is designed to enhance Portugal’s scientific, technological, and economic landscapes through advanced computing. The strategy aims to:

• Promote innovation and growth.
• Develop a world-class high-performance computing (HPC) ecosystem.
• Foster international collaboration and position Portugal as a reference in advanced computing.

Key Actions and Developments

• Advanced Computing Centers: Establishment of MACC, housing a low peta-scale HPC system in collaboration with the Texas Advanced Computing Center.
• EuroHPC Participation: Active involvement in EuroHPC planning, leading to joint proposals with Spain to host pre-exascale and petascale supercomputers.
• Supercomputers: Installation of notable systems like the Bob HPC cluster and planning for Deucalion, a 10 PetaFLOP machine, enhancing computational capacity significantly.
• QUANTA Lab: Development of a quantum science and technology lab in collaboration with national and international entities.

Strategic Objectives

• Infrastructure Expansion: Increase computational resources by a factor of 20 by 2030.
• Human Resource Development: Address the shortage of skilled professionals through education and training programs, leveraging partnerships with institutions like UT Austin and Carnegie Mellon University.
• Green HPC: Implement energy-efficient computing solutions and promote sustainable energy use in HPC operations.

Application Areas

The strategy focuses on key areas where advanced computing can drive significant impact:

• Health: Enhance health services through data processing and advanced computing networks.
• Earth Observation: Support sustainable development and biodiversity preservation.
• Mobility: Improve transportation management and urban mobility.
• Social Networking: Foster social well-being through advanced communication technologies.
• Scientific Research: Push the frontiers of knowledge in fields like particle physics, chemistry, and astronomy.

Challenges and Sustainability

• Governance and Coordination: Improve management and coordination of computing resources to meet diverse user needs effectively.
• Sustainability of Operations: Establish a solid financial model to ensure ongoing operations and resource updates.
• Qualified Staff: Address the shortage of skilled personnel to operate and utilise advanced computing systems.

ACP.2030 is a dynamic and evolving initiative aimed at positioning Portugal as a leader in advanced computing. By expanding infrastructure, fostering international collaborations, and promoting sustainable practices, ACP.2030 seeks to drive innovation and economic growth through advanced computing technologies.