This debate looked at the challenges and costs of extending Broadband access to as much of Europe as possible. It concluded that this is of primary importance to realise some of the targets established at the summit held in Lisbon Portugal in 2000.
Various national models for Broadband education, propagation and financing were discussed and it became evident that achieving European-wide Broadband roll-out would require EC sponsorship, support and possibly funding. EC contributions would also assist technologies such as satellite communications to be included despite 'economies of scale'.
Streamlining both national and European government funding procedures would be essential in ensuring the timely roll-out of Broadband services and prevent Europe from lagging behind other areas in the world. As in any significant infrastructure project in history, follow-on economic benefits will certainly result. According to a 2005 report by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the costs of a Broadband roll-out would be less than one percent of market revenues for European telecommunications incumbents.
Education too, is of noteworthy importance. Consumers must have both access to computer peripherals and at least basic computer literacy. This, however, coincides with the need for these same consumers to be well informed of the benefits of Broadband without which, demand will not grow.
A balance between supply of Broadband and the demand of Broadband services must be also struck in order to make it attractive to not only consumers but also suppliers. In achieving this two approaches are possible, either leaving it to market forces or encouraging development on the supply side.
Allowing technology to drive future development provides for more effective adoption of new applications such as video-streaming, which requires 10Mbps as opposed to the 512Kbps currently available. Future services remain undefined and are likely to need even greater levels of capacity.
Satellite communications has been the most cost-effective service provision available in rural areas. However, the lower speeds available meant that competition with fibre optic was not possible. The advent of Broadband services via satellite means that it can provide an important back-up for terrestrial systems and even compete effectively in some areas.
Bridging the Digital Divide is an initiative for end users who will always be at the forefront of current and future strategy. Alternative methods of achieving Broadband roll-out in rural areas could therefore be centred on schools. 'School pull-through' in which a proposed European Directive makes Broadband in schools mandatory and establishes them as local hubs for surrounding areas.
The consequential adoption of Broadband in these outlying areas will not only encourage residents to remain in their communities but also enable businesses to relocate there. An opportunity will evolve for future Broadband services to these users.
To read more about ESA and the Digital Divide, click under related links at the top-right of this page.
