The city of Düsseldorf has taken a co-ownership share in the city’s new network operator NetDüsseldorf (net.D). The move is to support the city, capital of Germany’s most populous state, further its smart city plans and boost the roll-out of optic fibre across the city.

The municipal Cologne-based NetCologne GmbH is the founder of net.D and was previously the sole owner.

The city is aiming for fibre optic connections throughout Düsseldorf by 2030. Currently, around 18 percent of Düsseldorf residents have access to a fibre optic connection.

“We want to make Düsseldorf more digital. The leading digital cities in Germany have their own, strong municipal internet providers. By investing in net.D, we are investing in the infrastructure and digital future of our city,” explains Mayor Dr. Stephan Keller the background.

The state capital wants to connect at least 50 percent of all households and companies to the fibre optic network by 2025. By 2030, all households and companies in Düsseldorf should be reached with fibre optics. In 2024, net.D will start expanding its own fibre optic network. The company also markets copper and fibre optic networks from other providers according to the so-called open access principle.

“Net.D is the only internet provider that caters exclusively to Düsseldorf. We cooperate with other network providers in the city to offer all Düsseldorf residents net.D tariffs designed according to their wishes. About the participation and here’s to a future We are therefore very pleased to be working more closely with those responsible for the city and the municipal utilities,” said Christoph Keisers, Managing Director of net.D.

Infrastructure is important for Smart City In the Smart City Index of the industry association BITKOM, Düsseldorf has slipped to 21st place. In particular, the still limited availability of fibre optics contributed to this. This should now change quickly.

“Good internet is the prerequisite for Düsseldorf as a smart city. And it is now part of the digital services of general interest for the people of our city. That’s why I’m really looking forward to working together. Net.D has the potential to enhance the digital infrastructure of Düsseldorf as a smart city “To bring it to the forefront,” said Julien Mounier, CEO of Stadtwerke Düsseldorf AG.