Internet access via power lines has so far taken hold in only a
few urban areas, but the potential is huge: the EU has 200 million
power lines running directly into houses, schools and
businesses.
The Commission issued a formal recommendation on Friday,
addressed to the Member States. Specifically, it aims to clarify
rules on using electric power cables to carry electronic
communication data. The Commission hopes this will boost
competition by opening up the market to new suppliers of broadband
connections via the electricity grid.
Commission Vice President Günter Verheugen, Commissioner for
Enterprise and Industry, said:
"The prerequisite is a clear and balanced regulatory environment
for attracting new players and new investment to the power line
broadband communications market. This Commission recommendation
will provide this clarity."
The Commission recommends that Member States remove any
unjustified regulatory obstacles, in particular from utility
companies, on the deployment of broadband power line communications
systems.
Its recommendation details how to apply the provisions of the
existing Directive on electromagnetic compatibility. Its provisions
are compatible with existing legislation and with the new Directive
on electromagnetic compatibility, which takes effect in mid-2007,
according to the Commission.
Vice President Verheugen concluded: "Member States and
innovative broadband service suppliers now face the challenge of
making the most of this opportunity."
