Energie Steiermark has now acquired a stake of 34 percent in the Austrian radio network operator ArgoNET. ArgoNET, the sole owner of the 450 MHz licenses in Austria, builds and operates high-quality wireless networks for particularly important and secure data transmission in the growing market of machine communication (M2M). The communication solutions are aimed primarily at the companies and operators with critical services in the energy, transport and health sectors as well as other infrastructure providers in public administration.

ArgoNET was founded in 2013 and since then has set up extensive mobile networks in Styria and Upper Austria in cooperation with Energie Steiermark and Energie Oberösterreich. With participation of Energie Steiermark as a strategic partner, new, high-quality and secure radio services throughout Austria are to be made available to more companies and organizations.

Christian Purrer and Martin Graf, board members of Energie Steiermark: “We have been cooperating with ArgoNET since 2016 and have invested more than 6.5 million euros in Styria in this radio network infrastructure up to date. There is a complete independence from the public mobile networks. Among other things, the transmission of all smart meter data is handled via 450 MHz network, while the highest safety standards are kept. In addition to the previous 30 base stations, another 20 will be added in the coming months. With immediate effect, the participation ensures access to the central radio network platform for the successful digitization of important infrastructure areas in Austria. This opens up significant growth potential for new businesses. ”

Georg Maunz, Managing Director of ArgoNET: “ArgoNET is a national mobile network operator that offers all interested users non-discriminatory high-availability and secure radio services. The implementation of the new, Austria-wide radio network is being carried out gradually and in partnership with existing market participants. The first offerings based on standardized 4G and 5G mobile technology will be available from 2020. “