According to local reports, ESB and Vodafone’s Irish subsidiary are negotiating the practicalities of deploying a fibre network alongside ESB’s nationwide electricity network.
If approved, the completed network would deliver broadband connectivity to an estimated 450,000 homes and businesses in Ireland.
The venture is initially expected to concentrate on towns with a minimum of 4,000 premises, but this is hoped to expand into more rural areas.
Government officials working on the legislation expect a successful agreement between Vodafone and ESB to increase competition in the country, and consequently lower prices for customers.
A national fibre network roll-out would place Vodafone in a better position to compete with rival operators in Ireland, Eircom and UPC Ireland.
In December last year, Vodafone Ireland launched 4G services in the country.
