Chickasaw Electric Cooperative Form Partnership with Aeneas Internet and Telephone
Somerville, Tenn. – Chickasaw Electric Cooperative (CEC) and Aeneas Internet and Telephone announced their collaboration to establish a state-of-the-art Gigabit fiber network to provide Broadband communications in the CEC service area. Given the limited availability of Broadband access for many individuals and its crucial role in our daily lives, this initiative seeks to bridge the digital divide in West Tennessee. With the ongoing construction of a high-speed broadband network using 100% fiber, which commenced in late August 2023, CEC and Aeneas plan to commence customer service by winter 2023. By working together, CEC and Aeneas will extend broadband coverage to the unserved/underserved rural residences and businesses in Hardeman, Fayette, and Haywood counties.
“Our members have been asking for Broadband access, and with grants from the State of Tennessee, Chickasaw and Aeneas will make equal access to all our members possible!” proclaimed Loyd Muncy, General Manager. “The Broadband project will also provide the backbone for a completely fiber-optic Smart Grid Communications Network providing faster, more targeted response to electric system events such as outages. I am excited about the opportunities the Gigabit fiber network will bring to our community. The Chickasaw Board understands the need to bring high-speed internet to our service area and fully backs the deployment.”
“What an exciting day for West Tennessee and the individuals residing in the Chickasaw Electric Cooperative area!” exclaimed Stephen Thorpe, CEO of Aeneas Internet and Telephone. “We are so excited to be working with CEC on this fiber to the home project. This endeavor will bring gigabit fiber services to both residential and commercial customers alike. We have witnessed firsthand the positive effects of dependable and affordable broadband solutions can have on communities. We eagerly anticipate assisting CEC in delivering exceptional service to their valued customers in West Tennessee, thereby narrowing the digital divide.”
In August, Aeneas and Bolivar Energy Authority celebrated 2,000 customers joining the Aeneas+Bolivar Fiber network since they began providing service to the Hardeman County area last summer.
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