Satellite technology could help deliver connectivity to underserved areas, some countries will need incentives for it to be successful
Second time around for Starlink as it receives authorisation from regulator: On 2 June 2022, Arcep announced that it had awarded a new licence to satellite firm Starlink Internet Services Limited, after its previous authorisation was revoked on a legal technicality. The initial decision of February 2021 granted Starlink permission to use certain radio frequency bands, which would enable it to provide fixed internet access in France, based on its constellation of satellites already in orbit. Arcep also set the technical conditions for using this spectrum, which aim to minimise interference by allowing coexistence between several different services and users. However, as the regulator granted the licence without public consultation, the country’s highest administrative court, the Conseil d’Etat, annulled Arcep’s decision in April 2022 after it was challenged by two environmental groups.
Consultation responses highlight potential impact of Starlink services: In its ruling, the Conseil d'Etat stated that the licence award could have a significant impact on the market for high-bandwidth internet services and affect the interests of end users. In light of the court’s decision and following a new request from Starlink, Arcep initiated a public consultation process to gather stakeholder input. One particular point to emerge from the responses was the potentially positive contribution Starlink services could have to improving connectivity in ‘white areas’ that are poorly served by fibre networks. Consequently, Arcep has issued new authorisations for Starlink to use the requisite spectrum to connect its satellites to gateway earth stations and to user devices in order to provide fixed broadband access.
Boosting connectivity in rural areas may require incentives: As previously noted, there is growing international interest in the role of satellite in delivering connectivity. For example, the Swedish Government has tasked the PTS with assessing how satellite can help achieve the country’s 2025 broadband targets, and also concluded that it is “the only realistic alternative” to reach underserved areas. In addition, the EU, India and the US are all launching initiatives to boost the satellite industry, with motives ranging from connecting the unconnected to empowering digital sovereignty. However, strong demand- and supply-side stimuli may be required in some markets to facilitate entry by satellite operators and to raise consumer awareness and overcome any preconceptions around quality of service. Some policymakers may also need to consider grants to encourage take-up, with the total cost of ownership for satellite broadband typically higher than other forms of internet access.
Source: https://www.arcep.fr/actualites/les-communiques-de-presse/detail/n/frequences-020622.html
