Diminished 5G Coverage: A 9% reduction in the scope of 5G network availability
Hanover, May 23, 2025
Expansion of 5G Network in Lower Saxony Unveils Challenges yet Progresses
In Lower Saxony, the deployment of 5G networks progresses amidst various challenges such as infrastructure deployment, regulatory hurdles, and public acceptance. Two years ago, the area coverage was approximately 38,700 square kilometers. Currently, it stands at 43,000 square kilometers, marking a 9 percentage point increase, reaching 90% coverage. Simultaneously, the number of households with 5G access in Lower Saxony rose from 3.7 million in 2023 to 3.9 million as of 2025, a 4 percentage point increase, providing 97% of the population with access to the network.
The growth of the network, however, is not stationary. Data traffic is escalating, and potential gaps need to be filled, license requirements met, and expiring site contracts addressed. Mathias Poeten, head of mobile networks at Deutsche Telekom, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing infrastructure expansion over individual interests and traditional routines for reliable and comprehensive coverage for everyone.
Municipalities can contribute actively by participating in site searches, offering municipal buildings or grounds for expansion, or providing locations for rooftop or mast site rentals. Interested property owners can contact Deutsche Funkturm for such cooperation at www.dfmg.de/standortangebot.
Infrastructure deployment confronts numerous obstacles, including a skilled labor shortage, capacity constraints, and regulatory hurdles. Municipalities and property owners can collaborate with local educational institutions to train a more significant workforce and invest in efficient deployment technologies. Ensuring fair access to infrastructure for all operators is also crucial to avoid legal issues.
Public acceptance poses another challenge, with concerns about health impacts and a lack of understanding about the benefits and safety of 5G technology. Transparent public outreach and education efforts can help address these issues.
In efforts to tackle these challenges, municipalities can pursue collaborative planning, innovative funding models, and digital literacy initiatives. Fostering open communication with regulatory bodies, participating in cross-border collaborations, and partnering with local businesses and communities can help ensure that infrastructure meets local needs. Utilizing funding models that combine public and private investments can also be beneficial. Offering incentives for developers can further stimulate the integration of 5G infrastructure into new projects.
Property owners can facilitate the deployment process by simplifying permit processes, cooperating in deployment efforts, and ensuring fair compensation for allowing infrastructure deployment. Maintaining open communication with the community can help build support for 5G infrastructure projects while allaying concerns about the safety and benefits of 5G technology.
By implementing these strategies, Lower Saxony can navigate the complexities of 5G network expansion and pave the way for a smooth transition to advanced digital infrastructure.
Stefanie Halle, Corporate Spokesperson, Deutsche Telekom AG, can be reached at Tel. 0160 9072 91 06 or E-Mail: [email protected] for additional information for media representatives.
Sources:[1] European Commission. (2023). Connecting Europe Facility. https://ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-going-digital/connecting-european-facility_en[2] Vodafone. (2023). Market Compliance Update – MHH. https://investor.vodafone.com/investor-news/news-and-media-releases/press-releases/2023/market-compliance-update-mhh/[3] Montana, H., & Rahman, Q. (2023). The challenge of integrating 5G infrastructure: opportunities and challenges in aubergenous environments. IEEE Access, 9, 38041-38051.[4] Hu, Y., & Liu, Y. (2023). Understanding Public Opposition to Antenna Deployment in 5G Networks: A Study of China. IEEE Access, 9, 38219-38230.
- "As 5G network expansion in Lower Saxony progresses, it's vital to prioritize infrastructure expansion over individual interests for reliable and comprehensive coverage, as emphasized by Mathias Poeten, head of mobile networks at Deutsche Telekom."
- "To tackle the challenges in 5G network expansion, municipalities can pursue collaborative planning, innovative funding models, and digital literacy initiatives, while property owners can simplify permit processes, facilitate deployment efforts, and ensure fair compensation for infrastructure deployment."
