Utilities

Communications >> Cork's telecommunications environment is linked to the national backbone. Competition has increased on the backhaul to international points of connection with unit pieces reduced to one sixth of their previous level.

The Cork City Metropolitan Area Network (CCMAN) provides high-speed connectivity on a 61km city ring. Individual ISPs and Telcos can lease space on the CCMAN. This is having a significant impact on costs with large benefits for businesses in Cork.

Cork City Council has carried out the Cork Information Technology and Telecommunications Study (CITTS) which focuses on the provision of high quality ICT services in the city. The CITTS report can be accessed at www.corkcity.ie/CITTS

Electricity & Gas >> Ireland's electricity market is being deregulated at present. However, the existing suppliers have met the challenge of Cork's demand for electricity, which has grown at a rate above the national average in line with rapid industrial expansion.

Currently, Bord Gáis is the only natural gas supplier in the Cork market with a network covering a large part of the metropolitan area.

Water >> Metropolitan Cork is currently serviced by the reservoir at Inniscarra. To maintain and expand this resource, Cork City Council and Cork County Council have embarked on a plan to integrate the water supply of Cork City and County.

Waste >> Both city and county authorities have a series of policies to safeguard the environment and meet exacting EU and Irish Government standards.