STL's Self-Certification Strengthens Position in Optical Fiber Cable Market for Broadband Expansion

STL's Self-Certification Boosts Optical Products for Broadband Initiatives

Sterlite Technologies Inc. (STI), a U.S. based subsidiary of Sterlite Technologies Ltd (STL), has recently made headlines with the self-certification of its optical fiber cable products. This certification confirms that these products comply with the U.S. government's Build America Buy America (BABA) requirements. This proactive measure not only reinforces STI’s positioning as a vital supplier for federally funded broadband infrastructure projects under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, but also showcases its commitment to enhancing connectivity across the United States.

The BEAD Program, managed by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), allocates significant funding designed to help states deploy high-speed internet, especially in rural and underserved areas. The BABA regulations specifically require the use of domestically sourced materials and products for any projects receiving federal support. By self-certifying its optical fiber cable products, STI aligns itself with these important federal objectives, ensuring compliance and readiness to tackle the unique challenges of broadband deployment.

STI’s commitment to this initiative is further exemplified by its investment of $56 million into a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in South Carolina. This facility is designed to collaborate with major broadband, internet, and communications providers across the United States, catering to both federal and privately funded broadband projects, which includes initiatives funded through the BEAD Program.

The products being certified include STL’s Rapid series, which expands upon the company's 'In America, For America' portfolio of advanced fiber optic cables. These products range from high-capacity ribbonized cables to ruggedized designs that suit various applications, such as duct, direct buried, aerial installations, and last-mile connectivity solutions. Additionally, STL has recently introduced an Optical Connectivity portfolio specifically tailored to meet the demands of the U.S. market.

By achieving self-certification, STL makes a strong statement about its dedication to promoting domestic manufacturing and creating jobs while supporting critical infrastructure expansion across the United States. The initiative aims not only to drive economic growth but also to ensure that the nation's broadband needs are met effectively.

STL is actively engaging with its growing customer base. In a recent statement, Rahul Puri, CEO of STL's Optical Networking Business, expressed pride in the company's inclusion on the NTIA’s Self-Certification list: "Our inclusion in the NTIA's Self-Certification list underscores our dedication to American manufacturing. It assures our customers that our optical fiber products meet strict BABA requirements and are ready to drive the next wave of broadband infrastructure projects." This robust commitment to quality and compliance positions STL as a critical player in enhancing connectivity and narrowing the digital divide in underserved and rural communities.

With its global status as a leading optical and digital solutions company, STL not only aims to fulfill the current demands of broadband expansion but also to participate in the further development of 5G networks, FTTx, and enterprise solutions. Its broad scope of products and services marks STL as a powerhouse in the telecommunications sector, particularly in advancing digital infrastructure in the United States.

About STL - Sterlite Technologies Ltd
STL stands at the forefront of providing optical and digital solutions, designing offerings for a modernized telecommunications landscape. For more details about STL and its offerings, visit their official website or follow their social channels.

About STI - Sterlite Technologies Inc.
With a manufacturing facility and North American headquarters in Lugoff, South Carolina, STI is dedicated to delivering world-class optical fiber cables and connectivity products to its expanding customer base throughout North America.