Investment in transport, energy and digital (telecommunications) infrastructure are the objectives under the next Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), which has just been established by a European Parliament regulation. The budget for 2021-2027 is €33.71 billion, of which €2.07 billion is to support the digitization process.

The digital part of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) will finance EU connectivity projects and is thus expected to contribute to the introduction and expansion of 5G networks across the European Union. The aim is to provide access to fast and stable connections to increase opportunities for remote working, moving business activities online, using online education and public services, and to support the development of digital competencies. The 5G network is also an avenue for broad innovation in sectors such as medicine, manufacturing, transportation, automotive and energy.

The programme will promote the deployment of 5G networks on the EU’s main transport routes, which will enable, among other things, the development of advanced CAM (Connected and Automated Mobility) services, i.e. mobility based on extensive integration and automation. The construction and modernization of the EU’s communications infrastructure, including submarine cables, can help to connect remote areas and islands, thus ensuring adequate connectivity for all EU citizens.

Source: digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu