On 13 December 2022, the CEF2 Digital program committee selected the projects that will receive funding to improve digital infrastructure throughout the European Union. The European Commission granted a total of EUR 151.3 million in funding for the construction of core networks and the development of 5G infrastructure along main traffic routes and for public services of local communities.
Two projects received funding
1. Planning the development of a digital backbone to connect Europe with strategic partners
CEF2 Digital awarded EUR 3.65 million to a project coordinated by Cinia for the further preparation of three new data cable investments and the planning of backbone networks in the Arctic region until 2030. Far North Fiber is the first long-distance undersea cable system connecting Asia, North America, Europe and Scandinavia via the Northwest Passage. The goal of the C-Lion2 project is to build an undersea fiber optic cable system that meets the needs of several operators in the Baltic Sea region. Terrestrial Backbone Finland offers fiber cable connections mainly in the north-south direction. Once completed, it will strengthen Finland’s national backbone and ability to join international systems.
2. Seamless 5G Northern European traffic corridor
Telia received funding to improve the continuity of the cross-border network service and to introduce 5G infrastructure. 5G enables seamless service continuity when the vehicle crosses the border.
What next?
The second application round of the CEF Digital program is currently underway. Since a national statement of support is required for the applications, the Ministry of Transport and Communications presents the proposed applications for Finland to be submitted to the Ministry of Finance.
HT
Source: Ministry of Transport and Communications
Source: The Nordic Page