Italian tower operator INWIT and FTTH operator Open Fiber have signed a strategic agreement to provide fixed wireless access technology coverage to more than 600 cities across the country.
The two companies say the partnership will make a significant contribution to narrowing Italy's digital divide, which is not only technological but also social and industrial. Aimed at the design and construction of up to 500 new sites by INWIT, with construction beginning this year, and associated hotel and infrastructure maintenance services, Open Fiber will provide fixed wireless access equipment and fiber connections to these sites, aiming to facilitate access to ultra-broadband networks in areas of the country that still have limited or no access to them.
Under the agreement, Open Fiber aims to accelerate coverage in small cities and inland areas, particularly those that are difficult to reach via FTTH connections. To date, the company's infrastructure has reached more than 14 million homes, companies and government agencies. For INWIT, the agreement provides an opportunity to expand its infrastructure with sites equipped with technical and structural features specifically suited to meet the growing needs of fixed wireless access operators, with returns consistent with its business model.
We are working every day to build the network that will enable the country to keep pace with the digital revolution underway," said Mario Rossetti, CEO of Open Fiber. the INWIT agreement is another step in further confirming our commitment to serve areas that are still not adequately connected through infrastructure with next-generation networks. Given the strong social value of our work, accelerating and completing networks in white areas is a top priority for Open Fiber.
Giovanni Ferigo, CEO of INWIT, added: "This agreement is designed to further narrow the digital divide, that is, to reduce the digital social marginalization that unfortunately still exists in many parts of our country. If we really want to build an inclusive and sustainable society, we must see digitalization as an ally, an enabling tool to create a more sustainable future for all.
