A Strategic Investment for Nordic Societies of the Future
Since spring, the project for a fixed connection across the Kvarken has made significant strides in feasibility studies and strategic partnerships. The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency leads the Kvarken Fixed Connection Feasibility Study, an extensive investigation into the technical, environmental, and economic conditions for the fixed connection. The Kvarken Council is part of the study’s steering group and provides a cross-border perspective to ensure the planned connection meets both local and national needs in Finland and Sweden. In addition to the Transport Infrastructure Agency and the Kvarken Council, the steering group includes the Swedish Transport Administration, Region Västerbotten, the Regional Council of Ostrobothnia, Traficom, and the Finnish Ministry of the Environment, giving the project strong support and extensive expertise. The needs assessment and feasibility study were put out to tender, and WSP Finland was selected to carry them out. The feasibility study will be completed in spring 2025.
Nordic Connector: A Broader Perspective on Infrastructure and Growth
In parallel with the Transport Infrastructure Agency’s feasibility study, the Kvarken Council is leading the Nordic Connector initiative, which provides a broader regional outlook beyond the fixed connection itself. The Nordic Connector project highlights potential for increased integration and cooperation in transport, energy, and economy in the Northern Nordics. Through this work, the Kvarken Council aims to show how a fixed connection can serve as a catalyst for sustainable energy transfer, green industry, and long-term security in the Nordic countries and Northern Europe.
FLINC: Financial Study for a Sustainable Future
In order to establish a sustainable financial basis for a future fixed connection, the Kvarken Council has applied for funding for the FLINC project (Financing Large-scale Infrastructure – Nordic Connector) through Interreg Aurora. FLINC, a separate study, aims to develop innovative financing models for a large infrastructure investment, contingent on approved funding. A central aspect of the FLINC analysis is to consider the wider societal benefits, highlighting how the project can yield positive outcomes for society as a whole. The focus is on identifying sustainable solutions that combine public and private resources, thus making FLINC an essential complement to the Kvarken Fixed Connection Feasibility Study. Together, these projects provide the foundation for an economically sustainable infrastructure investment as part of the package the Transport Infrastructure Agency will present to the Finnish Ministry. A decision on funding is expected by January 2025.
Autumn’s Progress: Strategic Meetings and Study Visits in Umeå and Vaasa
This autumn, the Transport Infrastructure Agency and the Kvarken Council held several dialogue meetings with stakeholders in technology, environment, and security in both Sweden and Finland. They addressed critical issues like military mobility and energy integration. On September 3–4, the Kvarken Council organized a study visit for the Transport Infrastructure Agency’s working group to Umeå and Vaasa, showcasing the connection’s regional significance and its broader geographic reach (e.g. from inland Finland to the Norwegian coast). The visit included presentations from prominent figures in industry, regional development, and politics.
In Umeå, Chairman of the Municipal Executive Board Hans Lindberg presented how a fixed connection would benefit logistics and business in Västerbotten. Representatives from the Västerbotten Chamber of Commerce and the industrial company Komatsu emphasized how improved infrastructure would strengthen supply chains and foster growth in the region.
In Vaasa, Wärtsilä showcased its Sustainable Technology Hub, where the company’s management described the logistical advantages a fixed connection would provide for their sustainable technology development and international market exports. The Ostrobothnia Chamber of Commerce also explained how a fixed connection across the Kvarken would promote economic growth and enhance the region’s role as a transport hub in Northern Europe. Local politicians and regional representatives addressed the project’s strategic significance for preparedness and green transition, underscoring the importance of continued project development.
Next Steps: Technical Assessments and Financial Solutions for a Stronger Nordic Infrastructure
Ahead of winter, the Transport Infrastructure Agency’s team will continue work on technical assessments and environmental impact analyses for the Kvarken Fixed Connection Feasibility Study, while the Kvarken Council, through FLINC, aims to prepare an assessment into funding possibilities to secure the project’s economic foundation and wider societal benefits. Together, these projects contribute to a larger goal: a fixed connection across the Kvarken that, beyond improving infrastructure, has the potential to transform social development in the Nordic countries and strengthen Northern Europe’s competitiveness and security.
On September 3rd–4th, the Kvarken Council organized a study visit for the Transport Infrastructure Agency’s working group to Umeå and Vaasa, showcasing the connection’s regional significance and its broader geographic reach. In Vaasa, Wärtsilä showcased its Sustainable Technology Hub, where the company’s management described the logistical advantages a fixed connection would provide for their sustainable technology development and international market exports.
In Umeå, Chairman of the Municipal Executive Board Hans Lindberg presented how a fixed connection would benefit logistics and business in Västerbotten.
Mikko Savola, Finnish Member of Parliament and member of the Kvarken Council’s Board, was one of the speakers during the study visit for the Transport Infrastructure Agency’s working group.
Read more about the Nordic Connector project HERE.
Read about major infrastructure investments similar to the Nordic Connector project: https://femern.com and text about Scandria Alliance Talks webinar.