Enabling Middle Mile Fiber Connections™

Tri-State Fiber Solutions

Fiber Available in SW Colorado and NW New Mexico

Inset map showing Tri-State dark fiber routes across southwest Colorado and northwest New Mexico

Tri-State dark fiber is available in a limited area, reference the fiber routes on the map. Only specified Tri-State power lines contain installed OPGW fibers that are permitted for commercial telecommunications purposes.

Large-scale service-territory map of Tri-State’s dark fiber routes, with a legend distinguishing underground commercial fiber from commercial fiber

Who is Tri-State

Tri-State is a wholesale power supplier established in 1952 with transmission lines spanning from northern Wyoming to southern New Mexico. As a not-for-profit association of more than 40 electric distribution cooperatives, we prioritize reliable, affordable and responsible service for the rural West.

Broadband in the Rural West

Like electricity, high-speed broadband is now an essential utility for all, no matter the location. Tri-State has unused optical ground wire (OPGW) fiber cable, or dark fiber, on segments of our transmission lines. Dark fiber refers to unused or unlit optical fiber strands that have been installed but are not actively being used to transmit data. We have an opportunity to lease surplus dark fiber to local internet and telecommunications service providers or organizations who rely on a strong internet connection. Dark fiber is the backbone of communication infrastructure for last-mile connection of end-users.

Is Dark Fiber Right for You?

Our fiber is part of our larger power transmission network and can carry large amounts of data over long distances. We provide a flexible and scalable solution that gives organizations the ability to control and expand their network capacity with high-speed, dedicated, and secure connections.

Why Choose Tri-State

Dark fiber is secure because no other users are on the network. However, it can be expensive to deploy and maintain, especially over long distances. It also requires constant monitoring of the system to work seamlessly. That’s where Tri-State comes in. With more than 70 years of electric utility service, including an in-house telecommunications team, we are able to support and maintain a vast network.

  • Security

    We can prevent outside parties from accessing private fibers.

  • Reliability

    Tri-State already maintains a 99.9% reliability of our transmission lines as well as supports maintenance and routine inspections with the ability to perform emergency restoration services.

  • Performance

    Our unused fiber has high performance capacity and future-proof upgradeable bandwidth.

Contact Us About Leasing Fiber

Fiber solutions from an electric utility with decades of telecom experience. Fill out the form below or email us at DarkFiber@tristategt.org. Leasing is subject to applicable permitting land rights authorization.

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