Fibre optic technology forms the backbone of modern communication networks. Compared to conventional copper lines, it offers higher bandwidths and improved signal quality. However, the rollout in Germany has been slow. A solution for cost-efficient and accelerated deployment is the overhead installation of fibre optic cables, as demonstrated in this contribution by Matthias Lehniger, Business Area Director TI Fixed Network & Mobile at Axians Germany.

For many years, Germany prioritised copper technology over fibre optics. This historical preference now necessitates replacing the existing copper network with the superior technology. Although the rollout has accelerated in recent years, Germany has yet to fully catch up internationally.

According to the BREKO market analysis 2024, by June 2024 approximately 43.2 percent of households had a fibre optic connection. Therefore, the federal government’s goal of achieving nationwide coverage by 2030 seems increasingly unrealistic, as reported by Digital Chiefs in this article.

This situation has multiple causes. High costs and lengthy bureaucratic procedures for civil engineering projects present significant obstacles.

Approval processes for construction projects often drag on for months, and the availability of skilled workers is limited. Against this backdrop, alternative installation methods are gaining importance to speed up the rollout.

Above-ground expansion promises numerous benefits

In many cases, the above-ground installation of fiber optic cables offers a good solution. This technique is often faster and more cost-effective than traditional excavation. The time saved is primarily due to simplified approval processes and reduced construction activities. While underground installation requires extensive excavation work and permits for the use of roads and paths, above-ground expansion is limited to setting foundations and poles and laying the lines on top. This approach enables larger-scale construction projects and significantly reduces personnel and logistical effort as well as associated costs.

An additional advantage arises when existing infrastructure such as telephone poles can be utilized. If the structural integrity and condition of these poles are sufficient, this further accelerates the expansion and additionally reduces costs. Since this infrastructure already belongs to the network operators, additional investments in support structures are eliminated, making the process even more cost-effective.

A More Sustainable and Maintenance-Friendly Solution

Overhead fiber optic cables are specifically designed for this type of use and are resistant to environmental factors such as UV radiation, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. While underground cables generally have a longer lifespan, their replacement and maintenance are significantly more complex and labor-intensive. Overhead cables are more accessible, making repairs and expansions easier.

These and other aspects make overhead construction not only more practical but also more sustainable in many cases. It requires significantly less material excavation and reduces the need for resources like concrete and asphalt, which are necessary for underground installation. This results in fewer legacy contaminants, and the disposal of excess material is largely eliminated. Additionally, sustainable materials like wood can be used for poles.

Overhead construction sites also interfere less with the surroundings, resulting in smaller construction sites and less impact on residents.