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The rollout of Ireland’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) continues to gather pace, with almost 157,000 homes, farms and businesses now connected to high-speed fibre. According to the latest update, close to 440,000 premises can now place an order for a connection, surpassing the original year-end goal of 420,000.

National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the organisation responsible for delivering the network, reports that construction works are now complete for around 80 percent of the premises included in the State Intervention Area. Based on current progress, the full rollout is expected to be finished by the end of next year.

Reaching Communities Missed by Private Providers

The State Intervention Area covers locations where commercial operators have no plans to build broadband infrastructure. This zone represents more than 564,000 premises and is home to over 1.1 million people. It also accounts for any future homes built in these areas over the next two decades.

NBI confirmed that the programme remains within the original State subsidy limit of €2.6 billion, which was set when the contract was signed in 2019. The overall long-term cost of the project is expected to be in the region of €4.4 billion over 25 years. Government funding will cover between €2.1 billion and €2.6 billion, with the remainder funded by NBI.

Managing Inflation and Maintaining Momentum

Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, NBI Chief Executive TJ Malone highlighted that the team has kept a tight hold on costs despite significant inflation during the rollout period. While general inflation has risen by around 22 percent since the contract began, NBI has managed to limit its own inflationary impact to roughly 8 percent.

Malone noted that build contracts are now in place through to the completion of the project, with the remaining 20 percent already well underway. He expects full completion within the next 12 months.

He added that the strong momentum behind the rollout reflects a disciplined approach to planning and cost management, enabling the project to stay within the original subsidy cap despite economic challenges.

Choice of Over 50 Broadband Providers

People living and working in areas where the new network is live can access high-speed fibre services through more than 50 broadband providers now offering packages on the NBI network.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for general guidance only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, details may change and errors may occur. This content does not constitute financial, legal or professional advice. Readers should seek appropriate professional guidance before making decisions. Neither the publisher nor the authors accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this material.