NIB to finance R&D for next generation mobile network

NIB will provide a loan for Nokia Siemens Network’s research and development programme. The loan, amounting to EUR 30 million, is NIB’s first to the company and is aimed at the further development and implementation of the so-called Single RAN technology to be used in network base stations.

The Single RAN (radio access network) technology integrates several wireless technologies, such as the GSM and WCDMA standards as well as the upcoming LTE (long-term evolution) technology into a new base station generation. The Single RAN stations can be updated and upgraded via remote software downloads, which enables much more simplified operation of networks. When updating the network, conventional stations and networks require partial replacement of the hardware and a site visit by service technicians.

The high increase in data volumes is a strong driver for future advanced technologies, since solutions that can handle the increasing volume are needed. The Single RAN technology allows changes in the configuration based on the traffic flow.

From an environmental point of view, the new network base stations use less energy and enable the use of renewable energy sources. Due to the large number of base stations in the world, more energy-efficient stations can significantly reduce the total amount of energy being used. Furthermore, by integrating technologies into one base station, there will not be a need to have separate stations for each new technology.

NIB’s two mandates, to enhance the environment and to strengthen competitiveness, are both strongly present in this project.

“We are happy to finance research and development, which is one of our focus areas. In an economic situation like the current one, it is very important that R&D efforts are supported, in particular in cutting-edge technology fields,” Johnny Åkerholm, President and CEO of NIB, says.

The Nordic Investment Bank is the common international financial institution of the eight Nordic and Baltic countries. NIB provides long-term financing to the energy, environmental, transport, logistics and communications, and innovation sectors for projects that strengthen competitiveness and enhance the environment. NIB has the highest possible credit rating, AAA/aaa, with the leading rating agencies Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s.

For further information, please contact

NIB

Kim Krokfors, Senior Manager Lending, at +358 10 618 0517,

mixIt(‘kim.k’,’rokfors’,’nib.int’,”,”,’1307695677129-0′);

Linda Lindfors, Communications Specialist, at. +358 10 618 0299,

mixIt(‘linda.lindf’,’ors’,’nib.in’,’t’,”,’1307695677129-1′);

Nokia Siemens Networks

Ben Hunt, Head of Financial Relations, at +44 7508 002382,

mixIt(‘ben.hun’,’t’,’n’,’sn.com’,”,’1307695677129-2′);