Consultation on broadband state aid guidelines

The European Commission published a consultation on the revision of EU rules on the public financing of broadband infrastructure, with a view to presenting new guidelines for state aid to broadband schemes in September 2012.

The Commission has published a detailed questionnaire to highlight the most important aspects where comments would be particularly welcome. These include, for instance, the technological and market development of very high speed broadband infrastructures, the best design of access conditions on subsidized next generation networks, enhancement of transparency of state aid broadband measures or the role of the national regulatory authorities in such projects. In light of the replies, the Commission will then evaluate whether and to what extent changes are necessary. If appropriate, the Commission will come forward with new draft Guidelines in early 2012. Member States and stakeholders will again have the opportunity to express their views on this revised proposal.