The role of state aid for the rapid deployment of broadband networks in the EU

Summary:

In this study, we provide an overview of the implementation of broadband State Aid measures across the EU during the period 2013-2019 and, with the aid of case studies, interviews and a survey of stakeholders, assess challenges and best practices in the application of State Aid to support broadband deployment. We draw on data gathered through the study to evaluate to what extent the Broadband Guidelines have been effective in meeting the objectives of boosting deployment of Next Generation broadband (NGA) and facilitating competition while limiting potential negative impacts on private investment.

We conclude that the Broadband Guidelines have made a significant contribution to supporting the deployment and take-up of NGA in areas where the economics of network deployment are challenging, and that aid has largely been efficiently distributed, although complexity and delays in the process have been reported in some cases. Updates to the Guidelines to reflect new EU objectives (for Gigabit-capable connectivity), reference recently adopted legislation, and provide more detailed guidance concerning mapping, tendering processes and wholesale obligations could be useful in any review of the Guidelines.

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