News Release

WOODSTOCK – Xplornet Communications Inc. will soon offer faster Internet services and, by the end of 2019, the latest 5G-ready technology to rural homes and businesses in New Brunswick.

“Your government’s multi-year economic growth plan is focused on investing to help all New Brunswickers,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “Fast, reliable Internet connectivity in today’s digital world is vital, including in rural New Brunswick. We are pleased to work with Xplornet to increase the capacity of the high-speed network that many rural New Brunswickers use to create economic growth and access important services.”

The company has selected New Brunswick as the site for the latest 5G-ready technology. This positions the province to be the first to have rural access to it, once the technology is available in 2019.

The Woodstock-based company, will install the latest wireless technology that will enable future 5G services, and bring speeds of up to 100 Megabits per second (Mbps) to rural communities.

The hybrid fibre wireless network will use 3500 MHz spectrum, which is the same spectrum being used for Xplornet’s 5G trials currently underway.

“At Xplornet our mission is to enable rural Canadians to live where they want to live, and connect to what matters,” said Allison Lenehan, company president and CEO. “5G technology is not just about cities – it is about all of the unique services it can enable wherever you are in Canada. At Xplornet, we are proud to be able to use the power of new technology and innovation to enrich people’s lives, especially in our home province.”

In support of this $30 million project, Xplornet is eligible for an investment of up to $10 million from Opportunities NB, which is a Crown corporation that seeks to attract and support opportunities to grow the economy and create jobs. The investment will come in the form of a non-repayable contribution towards the purchase of equipment and capital costs.

The first phase of the project will begin immediately and is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.

Xplornet is one of Canada’s leading broadband service providers. For over a decade, it has been providing broadband to rural customers across the country. It offers voice and data communication services through its unique wireless and satellite network.