2030
The Hessian state government is continuing to drive forward the expansion of fiber optics in Hesse at full speed. Digital Minister Prof. Dr. Kristina Sinemus signed an individual agreement with Andreas Pfisterer, CEO of Deutsche Glasfaser, in Eppstein on 5 August with the aim of providing as many citizens as possible with a future-proof fiber optic network. According to the agreement, Deutsche Glasfaser plans to connect at least 400,000 households with fiber to the home by the end of 2030. In return, the Hessian state government will advocate a practical and effective priority for self-economic fiber optic expansion over any funding procedures. In addition, the broadband portal is to be successively developed further to simplify planning and approval procedures.
Joining forces for a nationwide fiber optic network by 2030
“Our 2022 fiber optic pact was clearly a success. With the fiber optic offensive and the associated individual agreements, we are continuing the approach of market-driven expansion. Joining forces is important in order to achieve our goal of having a nationwide fiber optic network throughout Hesse by 2030,” said Minister Sinemus. “We need high-speed Internet for everyone, because fiber optics is the technology of the future, both in terms of speed and energy efficiency compared to copper lines.” Sinemus also pointed out that Hesse is well on the way to achieving its goal. Around 73% of households can access 1 Gbit/s, and connections with fiber optic directly to buildings increased by 61% to 26.06% between the end of 2022 and the end of 2023. 97% of schools and 99% of planned hospitals are gigabit-capable. Hesse is supporting the expansion with numerous funds. In addition to the broadband portal, which completely digitizes and accelerates the application processes for laying lines, Sinemus also referred to subsidies where no self-economic expansion is taking place.
Deutsche Glasfaser aims to connect at least 50,000 households in both 2024 and 2025. At least 400,000 households by the end of 2030.