As technological changes continue, fast and reliable internet access is becoming increasingly crucial. The growing use of cloud technologies and artificial intelligence is putting a greater burden on telecommunication networks, making significant investments essential for ensuring their reliable and rapid operation.
The European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA) has announced a call for proposals under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF Digital) to address these needs.
The support will be allocated to telecommunication infrastructure, including 5G networks and backbone networks, as well as quantum communication infrastructure.
The primary focus of the call will be on cross-border projects implemented by consortia.
What For?
- Support for the development of 5G networks will include projects such as:
- Piloting 5G networks in a Standalone standard (independent of LTE network infrastructure) across large areas and along European transport corridors.
- Using Standalone 5G networks for road or rail traffic monitoring.
- Managing networks using cloud technologies.
- Support for backbone networks will include projects such as:
- Building or upgrading backbone networks connecting at least two EU member states (submarine telecommunications cables, etc.).
- Preparatory work for building backbone networks along transport routes.
- Support for quantum communication infrastructure will include projects such as:
- Building cross-border quantum communication infrastructure (backbone networks).
- Building quantum communication network interconnection points.
Who can apply?
Different entities are eligible for each type of project. Generally, consortia comprised of at least two entities from different EU member states or associated countries can apply for support.
Entities eligible to apply (as part of the consortium) are:
For 5G network support projects:
- Mobile network operators,
- Mobile network tower operators,
- Backhaul transmission operators,
- Road and rail infrastructure operators,
- Mobility solution operators (traffic management, traffic lights, etc.),
- Public institutions.
For backbone network and quantum communication infrastructure support projects:
- Public and private entities.
On What Terms?
Applications will be accepted from October 22nd, 2024, to February 13th, 2025.
The budget for the call is EUR 323 million (EUR 105 million for 5G network support,EUR 128 million for backbone networks, and EUR 90 million for quantum communication infrastructure).
Projects under the call:
- For 5G network support can receive up to EUR 20 million,
- For backbone network support can receive up to EUR 20 million,
- For quantum communication infrastructure support can receive up to EUR 5 million.
Projects should be completed within a maximum of 36 months for 5G and backbone network support, and within a maximum of 42 months for quantum communication support.
Support will be granted in the form of grants. The amount depends on the type of work, the type of call, the beneficiary, etc., and can range from 30% to 75% of eligible costs.
PwC Comment
We are currently experiencing one of the greatest technological revolutions in many years. The increasing use of cloud technologies and artificial intelligence will only heighten the demand for fast and reliable internet access. Therefore, the need for investments in network development is particularly evident. It is worth taking advantage of the opportunities for support in this area, both within the CEF framework and other programs (such as the European Funds for Digital Development).
If you would like to discuss the instrument mentioned in this article or other forms of support, we encourage you to contact PwC's public aid team. We will gladly answer any of your questions.
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