Over 52,000 farms can now access high-speed fibre broadband

National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company responsible for delivering the government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP), has announced that 52,675 farms now have access to high-speed fibre broadband. This significant milestone represents a substantial increase from just two years ago, when the number of connected farms was significantly lower. NBI has also revealed that 23,037 farms are already connected to the high-speed fibre network, more than doubling the number of farms connected in the previous two-year period.

The rollout of high-speed fibre broadband is expected to continue, with nearly 65,000 farms anticipated to connect to the network once the project is completed later this year. NBI has already passed broadband connections to almost 460,000 homes, farms, and businesses in rural Ireland, with over 170,000 of these locations connected to high-speed broadband. The company reports that the average take-up rate of 37% is "well ahead of projections and international comparisons." In some regions where the network has been operational for an extended period, the take-up rate has even surpassed 60%.

As a wholesale network operator, NBI does not directly sell fibre broadband services to end users. Instead, it enables a range of broadband providers and retail service providers (RSPs) to offer their services to customers. NBI is contracted to manage the new national broadband network for at least the next 20 years, ensuring long-term stability and continued development of the infrastructure.

TJ Malone, CEO of National Broadband Ireland, has highlighted the transformative impact of the National Broadband Plan on rural Ireland. He stated, "The number of connected farms has more than doubled in just two years, reflecting the real and growing demand for reliable, high-speed connectivity in the agriculture sector." Malone emphasized that farmers are leading the adoption of broadband on the network, recognizing its role in improving productivity, enabling smarter farm management, and supporting diversification.

"From herd management apps and precision machinery to robotic milking systems, connectivity is now essential infrastructure on the modern farm," Malone added. He also noted that the shift from legacy copper phone lines to a modern, future-proofed fibre network brings greater reliability and significantly faster speeds to farms and rural homes. This transition is crucial for ensuring that rural Ireland remains competitive and connected in an increasingly digital world.

The expansion of high-speed fibre broadband access to farms and rural households is a testament to the success of the National Broadband Plan. By providing reliable and fast internet connectivity, the initiative is empowering farmers to adopt advanced technologies and methods, ultimately boosting productivity and innovation in the agricultural sector. As the rollout continues, more farms and businesses across rural Ireland will be able to benefit from the advantages of high-speed fibre broadband, further enhancing the region's economic prospects and quality of life for its residents.