Fiber Internet

Choose a service provider that offers the services — internet, telephone and TV and/or wireless — that you’re interested in. Ask other fiber users in your area who they’ve chosen and why. Then get on the phone and call a few. If you get a good vibe and have heard good things about them, they’re probably right for you.

First, use our search tool to ensure Grant PUD fiber is available in your area. If it’s available, contact the service provider of your choice and make an appointment for installation. They can also advise you about the type of equipment you may need, including a wireless router. Your service provider is your go-to source for information and troubleshooting.

Your service provider is your go-to source for all concerns or questions about your fiber and services.

Grant PUD built its first fiber network in the 1980s for high-speed communications between its Columbia River dams and the dispatch center at its Ephrata Headquarters. Dispatch monitors and controls when and how much power the dams are generating. Fast communications are very important. Fiber was a faster means than the microwave communications it replaced.

In the 1990s talk began of the network’s potential as a commercial or wholesale service. State lawmakers granted PUDs wholesale telecommunications authority in 2000 (RCW 54.16.330 and RCW 55.16.340). This authority allows PUDs to build and operate fiber networks, but not sell services over the network to “end users” (homes and businesses). Private companies, commonly called “service providers” pay the PUD fees to sell internet, telephone, cable TV and other services over PUD fiber. End users pay their service providers — not Grant PUD — for these services.

We began expanding fiber in 2000 to schools, government offices and areas of higher population density. As of early 2018, the network was accessible to 70 percent of Grant County residents and businesses. Total network build-out cost through 2016 was $256 million. That build-out was initially funded with reserves and a bond issue (financing). Grant PUD later used its own funds to pay off the bonds. Today, the fiber network is funded and maintained through a combination of the fees paid by the service providers and revenue collected from all Grant PUD customers through electric rates.

Our commissioners have expressed their commitment to extend the network to the remaining county residents and businesses waiting for access. Grant PUD commissioners make an annual assessment of available funding for fiber expansion. Current plans estimate the rest of the county receiving access by 2024. See the fiber expansion sequence list above for the most up-to-date status.