E.ON and Nokia Partner to Build Germany’s First High-Efficiency Telecommunications Network for Energy Distribution Operators

E.ON and Nokia Partner to Build Germany’s First High-Efficiency Telecommunications Network for Energy Distribution Operators

(IN BRIEF) E.ON SE has signed a major strategic contract with Nokia to build Germany’s first high-efficiency telecommunications network for distribution system operators, capable of reducing energy consumption by up to 50%. The partnership will modernize E.ON’s communications infrastructure with Nokia’s integrated solutions across IP, optical, and fiber domains, including next-generation XGS-PON and automation technologies. Designed to enhance grid resilience, scalability, and sustainability, the project supports E.ON’s goal of achieving a secure, low-emission, and digitally connected energy system. Leaders from both companies highlighted the collaboration as a cornerstone of Europe’s energy transition and a model for future smart grid transformation.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESPOO, 28-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — E.ON SE, one of Europe’s largest energy companies, has entered a strategic partnership with Nokia to modernize its mission-critical communications infrastructure across Germany — marking a significant milestone under the E.ON group-wide framework agreement. The initiative will establish Germany’s first high-efficiency telecommunications network for distribution system operators (DSOs), capable of cutting energy consumption by up to 50% while enhancing grid resilience, security, and scalability.

The renewed network will empower E.ON to strengthen its role in Europe’s energy transition and expand its capabilities in telecommunications services. By leveraging Nokia’s end-to-end technology solutions — spanning IP routing, optical transport, and fixed broadband fiber (XGS-PON) — E.ON will benefit from a more flexible, responsive, and sustainable infrastructure designed to meet future operational demands and sustainability targets.

E.ON operates one of Europe’s largest electricity distribution networks, connecting over 1.4 million renewable energy installations in Germany alone. As a key driver of the country’s clean energy transformation, the company requires a highly secure, reliable, and efficient communications backbone to support real-time grid operations. The new Nokia-powered network, built on advanced chipsets and automation capabilities, is designed to reduce energy usage significantly while improving service continuity, responsiveness, and scalability.

“Modernizing our network and harmonizing our technical infrastructure is a crucial move to ensure E.ON Group continues to deliver secure, reliable, and energy-efficient services across Europe,” said Lars Ramelow, Head of Supply Chain, Grid Communication Infrastructure, E.ON Group. “We’re investing in a next-generation telecommunications network that is ready for future demands — operationally, technologically, and environmentally. Nokia’s proven track record and technical expertise make it the right partner as we continue to scale our digital transformation.”

Nokia’s comprehensive network solution will ensure compliance with KRITIS (critical infrastructure) requirements, enhancing the grid’s cybersecurity and resilience while laying the groundwork for quantum-safe networking technologies. Its fixed fiber access solutions also allow seamless upgrades to 25G PON and beyond, ensuring that the infrastructure remains adaptable for decades to come.

“Our long-standing collaboration with E.ON reflects our mutual commitment to building secure, efficient, and future-ready networks,” said Eleftherios Papadopoulos, Managing Director, Nokia Germany. “This partnership stands out because of our ability to deliver across all key network domains as a single vendor. With our experience in mission-critical telecommunications, we are perfectly positioned to help E.ON digitize its grid infrastructure and support the broader European energy transition.”

Under the agreement, Nokia will provide the full suite of next-generation networking solutions, including IP routing and switching, optical transport, fixed broadband access, and advanced automation systems. The collaboration is expected to serve as a model for other E.ON affiliates across Europe, demonstrating how intelligent digital infrastructure can accelerate sustainability and energy efficiency goals.