By Oystein Bergmann, Bureau Chief, Scandinavia
Nokia has announced that its fiber-optic broadband network electronics and optical modules manufactured in the US will meet the current Buy America guidelines announced recently by the Department of Commerce.
Based on the latest requirements proposed, Nokia is on track to become the first Buy America compliant technology vendor eligible for use in the Department of Commerce Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) programme. By becoming Buy America compliant, Nokia will be eligible to supply its products and services to these critical projects focused on closing the digital divide.
President of Fixed Networks at Nokia, Sandy Motley said: “We fully support the guidelines issued by the NTIA and Department of Commerce which provide a realistic and reasonable approach to manufacturing broadband technology in compliance with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) mandates. Working alongside the Department of Commerce, we will continue to take the necessary steps required and plan to become the first broadband technology vendor to be listed as Buy America compliant – eliminating the guess work for any states or infrastructure builders participating in the BEAD programme.”
Chief Strategy Officer at Nextlink Internet, Claude Aiken said: “As a premier regional service provider that is looking to participate in the BEAD programme, having access to high quality, innovative technology solutions that are buy America compliant is critical for us to successfully deploy and extend fiber broadband to more rural communities across the mid-west. It’s great to see Nokia investing in the US and taking the necessary steps to meet the Buy America guidelines required for BEAD funding.”
President, Public Private Partnerships at Ready.net Inc, Scott Woods said: “Bridging the Digital Divide is a top priority for the United States. Too many families currently are classified as being unserved or underserved, and the BEAD programme will play a critical role in addressing this. Our data-driven geo- spatial platform helps applicants efficiently navigate through the application process. Now, applicants can be assured they have access to leading technology and solutions from global suppliers, manufactured in the U.S.A.”
