Project to build $120m undersea cable to connect Hawaiian islands launched

The University of Hawai’i has launched a public-private partnership with telecoms firm Ocean Networks to build a submarine optical fibre cable system connecting the Hawaiian islands.

The project, called Hawaiian Islands Fiber Link (HIFL) aims to expand high-speed broadband internet throughout the state.

Ocean Networks will supply, construct, operate and maintain the inter-island cable system, with partial funding through a federal grant and the remaining funds secured by the company through private equity and secured debt.

HIFL will form a major part of Hawai’i’s Connect Kākou initiative to improve connectivity throughout the state.

It will be a carrier-neutral, open-access system with landing sites on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, Maui, Kauaʻi, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi. The system will have 24 fiber pairs with a design life of 25 years and is expected to be ready for service in late 2026.

The state’s lieutenant governor Sylvia Luke said, “This is just one part of our plan to guarantee the state’s long-term internet connectivity. Connect Kākou has over $500 million in federal grants, state funds, and private matching funds available as we work towards connecting the unconnected and make sure everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed internet.”