Connecting rural communities with micro networks

Ed_H
Former EE Community Manager

Hi all,

 

Today we’re happy to announce our new micro network technology, a new way of connecting remote communities with 4G and mobile signal without the need for large mast installations or underground cables.

 

EE micro network technology does not need any fixed broadband to connect into the wider network, meaning it can be deployed in more remote areas.

 

The micro network can connect communities of around 100-150 homes and businesses, across an area of 0.5 square miles with just three or four small antennas. An antenna can be installed on to any building in just a few hours, and planning applications are not required.

 

So is micro network coming to your community? Well we’re rolling it out as fast as we can! Areas across the UK are being analysed now for connectivity, and the first deployments will be started in early 2015.

 

EE CEO Olaf Swantee said: “With this innovative new technology, we have the capability to connect every community in the UK, and we estimate that we’ll be able to bring reliable voice coverage and high speed mobile broadband to more than 1,500 places for the first time by 2017.

 

“We’ve been working closely with Government on the long-term ambition to bring voice coverage to more of the UK, and we believe that this world-first technology will demonstrate significant advancements against that vision.”

 

Paul Graham installs the first EE micro network site in Sebergham.JPG

 

The first community to be connected through trials of the new micro network technology is the small village of Sebergham, in Cumbria.

 

Sebergham has 129 dwellings and 347 residents, and sits in a deep valley. 

 

Cumbria County Councillor, Duncan Fairbairn, said: “The mobile service here is either non-existent or spasmodic at best. And the broadband is incredibly slow and very unreliable. In rural communities like Sebergham, being connected to good, reliable mobile coverage can make a significant difference to everyday life and we need fast broadband. We’re delighted to be the first community in the UK to benefit from this EE initiative, and there are more villages in my parish that I know will benefit hugely from this, and they’re excited to be connected next.”

 

If there are any questions about the new micro network technology, please ask below.

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