Greece’s Minister of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence Dimitris Papastergiou, presented a new bill aimed at delivering faster internet connections and reducing bureaucracy, as part of implementing the Gigabit Infrastructure Act.
According to the ministry, the proposed framework accelerates the deployment of gigabit networks through shared use of existing infrastructure and improved coordination of technical works. The reforms reduce the need for repeated excavation works, lowering installation costs while minimising disruption for residents and businesses.
The legislation also simplifies and digitises licensing procedures and rights of way through a Single Information Point, a central platform designed to provide data on infrastructure, planned projects and administrative processes. The initiative aims to enhance transparency, improve access to information and strengthen coordination between public authorities and telecommunications providers.
Papastergiou stated that the bill represents another significant step toward improving citizens’ daily lives by reducing administrative burdens and ensuring faster and more reliable internet access. He emphasised that better coordination of projects would prevent repeated roadworks in the same areas while maximising the use of existing infrastructure.
Under the proposed system, projects such as fibre optic installation in neighbourhoods will be centrally coordinated, allowing multiple providers to complete works simultaneously. This approach reduces disruption, speeds up project completion and improves efficiency across the sector.
The bill is also expected to reduce deployment costs through infrastructure sharing and improved project coordination, potentially freeing up resources for further investment and job creation within the digital infrastructure industry.
A key component of the reform involves upgrading the existing e-Dielefseis platform, which currently supports licensing procedures for fibre optic projects. The platform will be expanded into the Single Information Point, creating a unified digital gateway covering all technical infrastructure projects capable of hosting high-speed networks.
Through the platform, authorities will expand interoperability with other registries and information systems, consolidate data on existing and planned infrastructure and improve coordination among stakeholders, accelerating approval and implementation procedures.
For citizens, the reforms aim to translate into faster home and workplace internet connections, reduced bureaucracy and more advanced digital services. As internet access becomes increasingly essential for employment, education and communication, faster network deployment remains a key national priority.
Public consultation on the draft legislation is expected in the coming weeks. Secondary legislation is anticipated within six to twelve months, while the first coordinated infrastructure projects are expected to begin within 12 to 24 months, initially focusing on urban centres and selected island regions.
The Ministry of Digital Governance described the initiative as a major step toward modernising Greece’s digital infrastructure, ensuring broader and more equal access to reliable connectivity nationwide.
greekcitytimes.com.
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