National Broadband Ireland set to exceed 2025 target for premises passed
More than 400,000 homes, farms and businesses in the State’s Intervention Area can connect to high-speed broadband network delivered by National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company responsible for delivering the government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP).
NBI has achieved the milestone ahead of schedule, meaning the company is now on course to surpass its 2025 target of 420,000 premises passed.
This follows a decision earlier this year to accelerate delivery to an additional 65,000 homes, farms and businesses, bringing forward access to high-speed broadband for communities across rural Ireland.
With more than 50 broadband providers actively selling on NBI’s open-access network, rural communities now have access to the same level of competition and choice as those in urban areas. Customers can select from a wide range of internet providers, with competitive pricing and bundled packages available nationwide.
More than 140,000 premises are already connected with take-up rates averaging 35% and continuing to climb – approaching 60% in areas where the network has been live the longest such as the rural areas near Athlone, Castlebar and Emyvale. Fibre broadband is also available on 19 islands, including Achill Island where the first homes and businesses began connecting in June.
There are currently 564,000 premises included in the NBP Intervention Area, up from 537,000 at the time of contract award.
TJ Malone, chief executive officer, National Broadband Ireland (pictured), said: “Passing 400,000 premises marks another major step forward in the delivery of the National Broadband Plan. Every week, thousands more premises are being made ready for service, and the level of interest and demand we’re seeing is remarkable. As the rollout progresses, the full potential of a connected rural Ireland is becoming increasingly clear.
“This progress reflects the tireless work of our build partners, engineering teams and broadband providers across the country. It also wouldn’t be possible without the support and leadership of government, who have made a long-term commitment to connecting every part of Ireland and ensuring no one is left behind in the digital age.”
NBI was established by Granahan McCourt, an international investor in technology, media and telecommunications.
NBI will be responsible for the management of the new national broadband network for at least the next 25 years.
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