Access to reliable high-speed satellite Internet just became more affordable for rural and remote British Columbians who don’t have access to traditional broadband service.

Under the BC Broadband Satellite Initiative, a $2 million dollar investment by the B.C. government, remote areas of B.C. where wired or wireless broadband service is not currently available will have more affordable access to the latest satellite Internet technology.

Government has partnered with Xplornet Communications Inc. and local installers to provide qualified British Columbians with funding assistance for up to 50% of installation costs up to a maximum of $250.

The program will benefit residents where satellite technology provides the only option for a high-speed Internet connection.

The BC Broadband Satellite Initiative is one example of how the B.C. government is partnering with the private sector to help bridge the digital divide. Access to the Internet provides benefits to health, education and economic growth that are vital for the future of B.C. families, businesses and communities.

Today, more than 93% of British Columbians have access to high-speed Internet. The goal is to see every British Columbian with access to high-speed Internet by 2021.

For information on installations or program eligibility call Xplornet Communications at 1 866 841-6001 or visit: www.xplornet.com

Quotes:

Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services, Andrew Wilkinson -

“The Internet has become a necessity for 21st century life. Getting all British Columbians online will help expand economic opportunities, connect families and help bring the world to every corner of the province.”

Allison Lenehan, president, Xplornet Communications -

“We’re excited to be working with the B.C. government and local installers to help bring affordable high-speed satellite Internet to families who would otherwise not be able to take advantage of the benefits of a broadband connection. This new program will help ensure that everyone in B.C. will have access to the opportunities made possible by the Internet.”

About Xplornet Communications:

Xplornet Communications Inc. is Canada's largest rural broadband service provider. Xplornet specializes in making high-speed Internet available everywhere in Canada, including the hard to reach places, with Canada's first national 4G network that leverages a hybrid technology network of fixed-wireless towers on the ground and next-generation satellites in space.

Quick Facts:

• Today, more than 93% of British Columbians have access to high-speed Internet.
• The B.C. government has committed to ensuring 100% of British Columbians have access to high-speed Internet connections by 2021.
• Satellite technology offers a viable option for accessing high-speed Internet for British Columbians living in remote locations with geographic challenges that make it difficult to deliver broadband Internet through land-based solutions.

Learn More:

To learn more about Network BC visit: www.network.gov.bc.ca

About Xplornet Communications visit: www.xplornet.com

Media Contacts:

B.C. Government Media Contact:
Melody Wey
Communications Manager
Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services
250 508-5030

Xplornet Media Contact:
Morten Paulsen
morten@paulsengroup.ca
403 399-3377