Nordic Connector – an accelerator for the Northern Nordics
WHAT IS THE NORDIC CONNECTOR?
The Nordic Connector is an interconnecting link for the vibrant regions in the northern Nordics. It is an initiative for a fixed connection across the Kvarken, a vision that has existed since the Kvarken Council was founded in 1972.
The matter has recently become highly relevant due to the current geopolitical situation. Furthermore, the connection would have a long list of positive effects on society and the economy. The initiative for a fixed connection is included in Finland’s current Government Programme.
WHAT WOULD THE FIXED CONNECTION LOOK LIKE?
The connection would stretch between Vaasa and Umeå and may consist of a combination of bridge, tunnel, or road embankment. It is yet to be decided whether the connection will be solely a road or also include a railway, and the exact routes have not been determined.
Furthermore, the connection would link the energy networks in Finland and Sweden through, for example, power cables and gas pipes. This creates good conditions for the green transition.
AN ACCELERATOR FOR THE NORTHERN NORDICS
OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE GREEN TRANSITION
The fixed connection would have a positive impact on the energy transition.
- Secures industrial establishments that support the green transition
- Provides new opportunities for sustainable energy solutions
- Enhances resilience by connecting energy networks
WHAT HAS BEEN DONE SO FAR?
An initial survey has been conducted, showing that nature conservation areas do not pose any obstacle to the connection. However, more detailed environmental impact assessments are needed. Independent experts Esa Eranti and Antti Talvitie have performed economic calculations and demonstrated that there are feasible construction solutions for the project. An investigation of the fixed connection is included in Finland’s current Government Programme.
ENHANCED PREPAREDNESS
The fixed connection is highly relevant right now as it is expected to play an important role in the new geopolitical situation. The connection will strengthen preparedness both in the region and across a significantly larger area.
Finland and Sweden’s NATO membership has increased interest in better east-west connections. High-ranking military commanders have also expressed support for improved connections, underlining the strategic importance of the Nordic Connector.
The fixed connection is expected to improve military mobility and offer supply security for Finland, Sweden, and also Norway. The connection would be particularly important as an alternative route if the ports in southern Finland were to be blocked.
THE FINNISH TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE AGENCY HAS INITIATED A PRELIMINARY STUDY
The Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency has initiated a preliminary study on the fixed connection, in accordance with Finland’s Government Programme. The Kvarken Council is a member of the steering group at the Transport Infrastructure Agency. The study is divided into two parts – demand and needs are examined in parallel with technical aspects. The agency’s study is complemented by a study on financing solutions carried out by the Kvarken Council.
The Kvarken Council has a natural role as a driving force in the work since it has broad support from actors in the region. The goal is to start a new project for further investigations.
WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP?
The next step is to develop more precise route options for the connection. This will also include a comprehensive environmental impact assessment to ensure the project’s sustainability and to minimize negative impacts on the environment. Further, an investigation of various financing options is needed.
Cost-benefit analyses will be conducted to weigh the economic costs against the expected benefits and to highlight the positive societal and economic impacts of the connection. In addition, innovations will be explored in terms of environmentally friendly construction techniques.
