Submarine cable connects Ireland directly to Europe

A submarine cable nearly 3,125 kilometers long is set to create a direct link between Ireland and mainland Europe, skipping the United Kingdom. This new connection, named Pisces, will link Irish and European data networks more efficiently, reducing reliance on the UK.

Cable route spans multiple European countries

The cable will run from Galway in Ireland to Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez in France, Sopelana in Spain, and Carcavelos in Portugal. This multi-point design allows for greater flexibility and redundancy in data transmission across Western Europe.

Project timeline and funding details

The deployment of the cable is planned for 2028, following a marine study completed in August 2026. The total cost is estimated at 180 million euros, with an 18.9 million euro grant from the European Union through the Connecting Europe Facility.

Ireland’s current data infrastructure challenge

Currently, Ireland does not have a direct fiber-optic connection to the European continent, forcing data to travel through the UK. This setup can slow down and reduce the reliability of data services such as cloud computing and financial platforms.

Technical and financial collaboration

The project is a joint effort between Orange, Equitix, and MDM. Orange brings technical expertise, while Equitix and MDM provide investment. Equitix is supported by Ireland’s Strategic Investment Fund, a state-backed investment fund.

Project leadership and European support

Carine Romanetti, a former Orange executive, has been appointed as the general director of the joint venture. The European Union has previously supported earlier stages of the project, highlighting its importance for the region’s digital infrastructure.

Environmental and regulatory steps underway

Environmental assessments and regulatory approvals are currently being finalized in the four countries involved. These steps are necessary before the cable can be physically laid using specialized ships.

Impact on data transmission and future trends

Once operational, the Pisces cable will reduce latency and improve network resilience for Ireland. France, Spain, and Portugal will serve as key access points for a new transatlantic data route. This project aligns with a global trend of expanding submarine cables to meet rising demand from cloud computing and artificial intelligence.