The Government of the Generalitat of Catalonia has reaffirmed its commitment to digital connectivity by announcing an ambitious plan to extend the public fiber optic network to all municipalities in the region before the end of the legislative term. The initiative, presented at a meeting with representatives from local government and provincial councils, aims to ensure access to a key infrastructure for territorial cohesion and economic and social development.
A constantly expanding deployment
Since the beginning of the legislative term, nearly 1,000 kilometers of new fiber optic cable have been completed, allowing for the connection of 82 additional municipalities. Currently, the public fiber optic network consists of 6,700 kilometers deployed and 618 municipalities connected, representing 65% of the total in Catalonia.
This year, the completion of an additional 1,400 kilometers of network is expected, bringing the total over 8,000 kilometers. This progress will enable 121 more municipalities to access a connection point, increasing coverage to 78% of the territory.
The ultimate goal of this initiative is to ensure that all Catalan municipalities have access to the high-speed public network before the end of the legislative term.
Investment and economic benefits
For the network expansion in 2025, the Government has allocated an investment of 91.5 million euros for new sections and preparatory works. Since the project’s inception, the cumulative investment has exceeded 300 million euros. It is estimated that for every euro invested in the public fiber optic network, society receives a return of 12.85 euros in economic and social benefits.
Collaboration with the private sector and local administrations
The deployment of the public fiber optic network is carried out in coordination with provincial councils and municipalities, enabling the connection of public infrastructures such as schools and health centers. Additionally, the network is open to private telecommunications operators, facilitating the availability of high-speed internet services in areas that, due to market factors, would otherwise lack coverage.
The Government is also working on a collaboration protocol with private operators to reinforce connectivity throughout the territory. In January, a meeting was held with representatives from the sector and local entities to establish immediate measures and long-term cooperation mechanisms. As a result, the Technical Committee for Monitoring Telecommunications Incidents was created, and it was agreed to improve communication channels between municipalities and private operators.
Toward a fully connected Catalonia
With this strategy, the Government aims to reduce the digital divide, strengthen territorial cohesion, and promote economic development. The expansion of the public fiber optic network will not only benefit public infrastructures and services, but also drive business growth and digitalization in rural and low-density areas.
The Generalitat remains committed to continue working together with local administrations and the private sector to ensure that by the end of the legislative term, 100% of Catalan municipalities have access to the public fiber optic network, ensuring universal and quality connectivity for all citizens.