Internet access via power lines has so far taken hold in only a few urban areas, but the potential is huge: the EU has 200 million power lines running directly into houses, schools and businesses.
The Commission issued a formal recommendation on Friday, addressed to the Member States. Specifically, it aims to clarify rules on using electric power cables to carry electronic communication data. The Commission hopes this will boost competition by opening up the market to new suppliers of broadband connections via the electricity grid.
Commission Vice President Günter Verheugen, Commissioner for Enterprise and Industry, said:
"The prerequisite is a clear and balanced regulatory environment for attracting new players and new investment to the power line broadband communications market. This Commission recommendation will provide this clarity."
The Commission recommends that Member States remove any unjustified regulatory obstacles, in particular from utility companies, on the deployment of broadband power line communications systems.
Its recommendation details how to apply the provisions of the existing Directive on electromagnetic compatibility. Its provisions are compatible with existing legislation and with the new Directive on electromagnetic compatibility, which takes effect in mid-2007, according to the Commission.
Vice President Verheugen concluded: "Member States and innovative broadband service suppliers now face the challenge of making the most of this opportunity."