Rome-based utility Acea and wholesale broadband network operator Open Fiber have signed a MoU for the installation of an ultrafast broadband network in Rome using FTTH technology.

Acea will make available to Open Fiber its infrastructures for the laying of fibre optic cable, thereby minimising the impact of the works on the town.  The total investment is €375 million and the works will be carried out over the next five years. Of this amount, around €350 million will be incurred by Open Fiber.

Within five years, an estimated 30 per cent of the capital’s residential areas should be reached, representing a total of around 370,000 units, which will benefit from connection speeds of 1 Gbps.

The implementation of this agreement will enable a series of services in the cultural, healthcare, social and business development and Public Administration fields, Acea will also become one of the first players in Italy to introduce IoT technology for remote control of power and water networks

The two companies may also set up a newco during 2018, with ACEA as majority shareholder, for the development of new value-added services for citizens within the scope of “Smart City” initiatives.

Open Fiber’s overall plan involves approximately 1.2 million homes in Rome and is part of a nation-wide project that involves Italy’s 271 main towns.

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