100% basic broadband coverage achieved across Europe
Baku, October 19 (AZERTAC). Very EU household can now have a basic broadband connection, thanks to pan-EU availability of satellite broadband. Satellite connections are now available in all 28 countries meaning every European can take out a satellite subscription, including the three million people not already covered by fixed and mobile broadband networks.
Vice President of the European Commission, Neelie Kroes, today welcomed the milestone achievement of one of the main goals of the Digital Agenda for Europe:
“My motto is Every European Digital - now every European genuinely has the opportunity. We have more to do to improve networks and equalize the opportunity, but the opportunity is there.”
"Thanks to the extra coverage provided by satellite broadband, we have achieved our 2013 target of broadband for all. That's a great result for European citizens.
By the end of 2012, 99.4% of EU household had access to basic fixed or mobile broadband coverage; including 96.1% of households in rural areas. But the final 0.6% (or roughly 3 million citizens) included many families and businesses in isolated or rural areas where fixed or mobile broadband rollout is more cumbersome and expensive.
Kroes says: “The EU is technology neutral, but for those in the most isolated areas, satellite is a good option to stay connected; and it's likely to remain so."
Many Europeans don’t realise satellite broadband is an option for them. That is why Neelie Kroes today launched broadbandforall.eu a service developed by the European Satellite Operators Association (ESOA) to enables citizens to check quickly their satellite broadband options.
There are 148 satellites providing services to Europeans. Basic packages start from €10 per month, with 20Mbps packages from €25 per month, with average prices for satellite dishes being €350 (can be cheaper if a premium subscription is taken out).
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