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Costs for a fibre based Gigabit Society significant but achievable

FTTH Conference, Marseille, 16 February 2017: The FTTH Council Europe made public the first results of its updated study on the cost of deploying FTTH throughout the EU showing that the outstanding costs of full fibre coverage in the EU are €156 billion as input to the ongoing legislative debate on the proposal for a European Electronic Communications Code.

The cost model calculated the complete overlay of the EU28 countries with fibre (Fibre to the Home) including 100% homes passed and 50% connected. The €156 billion cost accounts for the already existing fibre coverage and connections. The re-use of existing infrastructure and effective implementation of the Cost Reduction Directive can lead to further 12% cost savings and could further bring down these costs to €137 billion.

The 12% cost reduction can be achieved by reusing existing infrastructure, more co-ordination and sharing of civil works and the re-use of in-building infrastructure.

We call for a transparent and realistic discussion on the costs and the definition of technology neutrality so that the co-legislators, end-users and investors can make well informed decisions knowing the real costs of a fibre based Gigabit Society.
'These cost estimates show that fibre requires considerable investment but is doable throughout Europe. In this context we should be careful not to misinterpret technology neutrality turning a blind eye on what different technologies can deliver. Europe needs fibre based very high capacity networks to meet the needs of a digital economy and society.' said Erzsebet Fitori, Director General of the FTTH Council Europe.

Ronan Kelly, President of the FTTH Council Europe, added: 'Fibre based infrastructure is the only future-proof foundation enabling fixed and wireless Gigabit networks as well as all new innovative digital technologies and services and the prerequisite for Europe's global digital competitiveness and sustainability. Our vision is that fibre connectivity will transform and enhance the way we live, do business and interact, connecting everyone and everything, everywhere.'
The FTTH Council study results are presented and discussed at the FTTH Conference in Marseille, France, 14-16 February 2017 www.ftthconference.eu


About the FTTH Council Europe:

The FTTH Council Europe is an industry organisation with a mission to accelerate the availability of fibre-based, ultra-high-speed access networks to consumers and businesses. The Council promotes this technology because it will deliver a flow of new services that enhance the quality of life, contribute to a better environment and increase economic competitiveness. The FTTH Council Europe consists of 150 member companies. www.ftthcouncil.eu