Thu Sep 19 05:34:19 UTC 2024: ## Greece Launches €100 Million Voucher Program to Boost Ultra-High-Speed Broadband

**Athens, Greece** – The Greek government has announced a new €100 million voucher program aimed at boosting ultra-high-speed broadband access for households and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs). This initiative, funded by the Recovery Fund, will provide vouchers worth €200 per beneficiary to cover the cost of installing fiber optic networks in buildings and acquiring ultra-high-speed broadband connections.

The program targets citizens and businesses who currently lack broadband connections with download speeds exceeding 100 Mbps. The vouchers will be used to cover the initial connection cost, with participating providers required to offer minimum download speeds of 250 Mbps or symmetrical speeds of 100 Mbps.

**Key Features of the Program:**

* **Broadband Infrastructure Upgrades:** The program encourages the installation of fiber optic networks within buildings, facilitating ultra-high-speed broadband service provision to all areas.
* **Smart Meter Integration:** It also promotes the installation of infrastructure for connecting utility network meters (electricity, natural gas) to the building’s communication infrastructure, paving the way for the integration of future smart meters.
* **Increased Penetration:** The program aims to increase the penetration of ultra-high-speed broadband services, currently lagging behind EU averages.

**Expected Benefits:**

* **Improved Digital Connectivity:** The initiative aims to provide more Greeks with access to ultra-high-speed internet, facilitating digital inclusion and economic growth.
* **Smart Grid Development:** The installation of infrastructure for smart meter integration will support the development of a more efficient and sustainable energy grid.
* **Job Creation:** The program is expected to create new jobs in the telecommunications sector.

**Target:**

The program aims to upgrade 120,000 buildings by December 2025, significantly increasing the availability of ultra-high-speed broadband across the country.

This initiative is a significant step towards Greece’s goal of becoming a leader in digital innovation, providing citizens and businesses with the necessary tools to thrive in the 21st century.

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