The Minor Islands Connection Plan, launched with a focus on providing ultra-fast connectivity to smaller islands, has taken a major step forward. The event, held on the Teliri cable-laying ship in Palermo, saw the participation of institutional actors, media, and representatives from Elettra Tlc.

Alessio Butti, the undersecretary of the Prime Minister responsible for Innovation, emphasized the importance of connecting smaller islands with high-speed networks as a significant investment in their economic development. Alfredo Maria Becchetti, President of Infratel Italia, also highlighted the significance of providing adequate connectivity to smaller islands and bridging the infrastructure gap.

Elettra Tlc expressed pride in contributing to the strengthening of the economy of the Minor Islands and improving residents’ daily lives through their role in installing optical connections for the Plan. The Plan aims to provide adequate connectivity to 21 smaller islands primarily in Sicily and is financed and promoted by the Department of Digital Transformation with an investment of over 45 million euros from Pnrr.

Through laying submarine and terrestrial optical cables, the plan will enable modern digital services for businesses, citizens and local governments on these islands. This includes access to ultra-broadband services, mobile connectivity services and potentially 5G technology based services. Out of 62% of these islands affected by this plan are located in Sicily.