The German Broadband Communications Association (BREKO) today awarded DATEL Dessau, a subsidiary of Stadtwerke Dessau, the “Real Fiber” quality seal. The Mayor of Dessau-Roßlau, Dr. Robert Reck, was also honored as a “digital politician”.

The fiber optic expansion in Dessau-Roßlau began back in 2013, initiated by a cooperation between Stadtwerke Dessau and the Dessau housing companies. By the end of 2014, a fiber optic network had been built for around 18,000 households. Another milestone was the comprehensive broadband expansion as part of the subsidized NGA project, in which 11 districts and 19 commercial locations were connected to the DATEL fibre optic network within 14 months.

DATEL receives the “Real Fiber” quality seal from BREKO for its achievements in recent years. The award goes to companies that give priority to building fiber optic connections to buildings (FTTB) and homes (FTTH). A further criterion is the level of investment made and planned in the fiber optic network.

As part of the “Fiber for Future” initiative, BREKO also recognizes politicians who provide important digital policy impetus in the course of their work. Mayor Dr. Robert Reck has repeatedly promoted fibre optic technology in public and in public dialogues and has campaigned for the release of additional funds for the expansion of fibre optics in Dessau-Roßlau.

Daniel Seufert, Senior Manager Member Support and Development BREKO: “In order for fiber optic expansion to continue in Germany, we need strong players like DATEL, who have driven fiber optic expansion forward at a rapid pace in recent years. Support from local politicians is just as important. Dr. Robert Reck has been committed to fast and efficient fibre optic expansion in his city from the very beginning. The award also goes on behalf of the city administration of Dessau-Roßlau, which has long made it possible to lay fiber optic cables as part of other road construction measures. This saves costs, time and protects the environment.”

Marinne Hügel, Head of Telecommunications at DATEL: “Stadtwerke Dessau and DATEL have been continuously investing in fiber optic expansion with state-of-the-art technology for over 10 years, thus ensuring a reliable and future-proof digital infrastructure in the region.”

Dino Höll, Managing Director of Stadtwerke Dessau: “The BREKO award is both recognition and motivation for us and confirms us in our digital strategy, which envisages a future-proof and sustainable infrastructure for Dessau-Roßlau and the region.”

Dr. Robert Reck, Lord Mayor of Dessau-Roßlau: “As a strategic location factor, the expansion of fibre optics is of outstanding importance for innovation, competitiveness, employment and sustainable economic growth in our city and region. DATEL plays a key role in this and is the driving force behind the targeted expansion of digital infrastructures in Dessau-Roßlau.”

More information on the “Fiber for Future” initiative and how to apply for the “Real Fiber” and “Digital Politician:in” awards: https://www.brekoverband.de/breko/fiber-for-future/