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Lite Access's technology to be trialled in the UK

Last updated: 10:48 18 Jan 2016 EST, First published: 05:48 18 Jan 2016 EST

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Lite Access makes micro-trenches

Fibre optic broadband installer Lite Access Technologies (CNSX:LTE) is looking to move into the UK market with its latest trial with ScottishPower.

ScottishPower is looking to replace its current overhead lines system in forested areas where lines damaged by fallen trees are frequently in need of repair.

SP Energy Networks, a division of ScottishPower, has agreed to trial Lite access’s micro-trenching technology, which cuts a one-and-a-quarter inch wide by 14-inch deep gap to fit fibre optic cables.

The significantly cheaper, and less disruptive, method allows the firm to place up to 500 metres (m) of fibre a day at around a third of the cost of traditional methods.

It then uses compressed air through tube systems to blow the fibre to its end point.

Eifion Griffiths, head of resources and work planning at SP Energy, said the aim is to “develop a high quality and reliable alternative to the overhead cables we currently use to service our over 3.5mln clients”.