Shape Energy, a New Zealand-based innovator in ICT infrastructure, has announced a major expansion of its partnership with the Federated States of Micronesia Telecommunications Cable Corporation (FSM & FSMTCC). This latest development includes the delivery of two additional units, significantly scaling the current submarine fiber optic cable network project and reinforcing Shape’s leadership in high-tech exports and digital infrastructure in the Pacific.
At the heart of this project is Shape’s flagship containerised data centre solution. Built in New Zealand, each unit features integrated power, cooling, fire suppression, security, and structured cabling systems. These units are designed to withstand natural disasters and ensure uninterrupted data flow in remote and challenging environments like the Pacific Islands.
This cutting-edge technology offers plug-and-play deployment for regions with limited ICT infrastructure, making it an ideal solution for connecting underserved areas through high-speed broadband and submarine fiber optic cables.
A submarine fiber optic cable is a high-capacity communications cable laid on the ocean floor to connect continents, countries, and islands with high-speed internet and data transmission. These cables are the backbone of the global internet.
The FSM is made up of more than 600 islands spread across the western Pacific Ocean. That creates huge challenges when it comes to connecting people, businesses, and governments with fast, reliable internet.
Installing submarine fiber optic cables (along with supporting infrastructure like Shape’s containerised data centers) helps solve that problem.
Mobile data center interior
Shape’s initial engagement with FSMTCC began in 2023 with the delivery of a single unit. Following the successful implementation, FSMTCC has expanded the agreement. These units will play a key role in the Digital FSM Project, which aims to deliver open-access fiber connectivity across multiple islands, including Kosrae. The initiative will help bridge the digital divide by:
Expanding high-speed internet coverage
Enabling digital government services
Driving economic development through ICT
Attracting investment in digital services and remote education
Shape was founded in 2021 through the consolidation of several New Zealand-based infrastructure firms. Since then, it has rapidly scaled by leveraging proprietary technology and intellectual property across its Blok Series, that includes Powerblok and Nitroblok.
Beyond Micronesia, Shape has demonstrated its reliability with deployments such as emergency backup fiber exchanges for Chorus, New Zealand’s leading broadband provider.
Chorus MEOW (Mobile Exchange On Wheels)
Shape’s ongoing partnership with FSMTCC exemplifies how New Zealand-made technology is solving global digital connectivity challenges. By supporting resilient submarine fiber optic cable infrastructure and scalable ICT deployment, Shape is playing a pivotal role in advancing digital equity across the Pacific.
As the company continues to support the Federated States of Micronesia in its digital journey, Shape remains committed to driving sustainable growth, technological innovation, and regional partnerships that empower communities and economies alike.