Project Description

Overview – Leif Erikson Submarine Cable

WFN Strategies partnered with Bulk Fiber Networks to deliver critical feasibility and planning services for the Leif Erikson cable project, a groundbreaking trans-Atlantic submarine cable system connecting Norway and Canada. This project represents a landmark in sustainability, as it will be the first trans-Atlantic fiber system powered entirely by renewable energy.

Project Highlights

  • Innovative Scope: A 4,200 km direct submarine link between southern Norway and Goose Bay, Canada, with a terrestrial extension to Montreal.
  • Sustainability Leadership: The system aligns with Bulk’s commitment to renewable energy, addressing a key global need for sustainable digital infrastructure.
  • Feasibility Study: WFN Strategies provided critical support through hazard identification, survey planning, risk management, budget modeling, and lifecycle sustainability planning.

Challenges Addressed

  1. Arctic Conditions: Leveraging WFN’s experience with arctic submarine cable systems to manage environmental and logistical complexities.
  2. Sustainability Goals: Integrating sustainability into every phase of project management and supply chain planning.
  3. Future-Proofing Infrastructure: Creating a high-level technical roadmap to ensure seamless integration with the Nordics’ and Canada’s growing digital infrastructure needs.

WFN Strategies’ Role

As a leader in submarine cable system planning, WFN Strategies executed:

  • A comprehensive feasibility study, identifying technical and environmental obstacles.
  • Risk assessment and mitigation planning tailored to the unique challenges of trans-Atlantic cable deployment.
  • Budget and timeline planning for seamless project execution.

Outcome and Recognition

  • Bulk Fiber Networks and WFN Strategies laid the groundwork for the industry’s first 100% renewable-powered trans-Atlantic cable system.
  • The Leif Erikson project was shortlisted for the 2021 Global Carrier Awards, showcasing its innovation in sustainability and connectivity.
  • The feasibility study provided a solid framework for survey and construction phases, contributing to Bulk’s broader vision of sustainable infrastructure development.

“We are pleased to formally kick off the Leif Erikson project together with WFN. We are dedicated to our vision – racing to bring sustainable infrastructure to a global audience, and the Leif Erikson project is an important enabler for continued growth in clean, green, and sustainable data processing.”
Peder Naerboe, Founder & Executive Chair Bulk Fiber Networks AS

Conclusion

The Leif Erikson project highlights WFN Strategies’ ability to combine technical expertise with sustainability-focused solutions, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in transformative infrastructure projects. This collaboration demonstrates how innovative engineering and sustainable practices can drive progress in global connectivity.