TIM Starts Switching Off the Copper Network in Italy

To encourage the adoption of new fiber-optics technologies and accelerate the process of digitalizing the country, TIM has begun decommissioning the first 62 all-copper exchanges. It is the beginning of the copper access network switch-off plan, which involves the progressive switching off of over 6,700 exchanges, out of the approximately 10,500 existing ones, by 2028.

The 62 exchanges involved in this initial operation are located in 54 municipalities over 11 regions. The switch-off involves transferring the connections established on these exchanges (ADSL, ISDN, and RTG telephone lines) to the new-generation TIM network, already available totally or partially through fiber.

“We are embarking on an important phase of transforming our access network,” said Elisabetta Romano, TIM Chief Network Operations & Wholesale Officer. “Migration from the access services offered on the copper network to those available on the new-generation network marks the beginning of the switch-off process, which will involve over 60% of our exchanges nationally, located mainly in outlying areas or small municipalities. To decommission such a large number of exchanges, constant commitment to creating networks that wholly or partially employ fiber optics and innovation concerning outdated tech platforms becomes essential. We are working to accelerate the process and create the conditions for switching off a significant number of exchanges even within the next two years.”

Migrating customers towards ultra-broadband connections will allow a significant improvement in performance and quality of service, with considerable benefits also in terms of environmental impact. Decommissioning the copper exchanges, also involving the simultaneous switch-off of all equipment linked to the traditional services in the other exchanges connected to them, is estimated to allow a reduction of approximately 450,000 MWh in energy consumption and of 209,600,000 kg in CO₂ emissions when fully operational.

The technological adaptation operations have been approved by the National Telecoms Regulator (AGCom) as part of the broader general technology renewal plan, which envisages the progressive decommissioning of copper network exchanges. Finally, in recent months TIM has sent specific information to all the municipalities in the areas where the exchanges involved in the initiative are located, also organising specific meetings to provide further information on the subject.