Broadband over powerline information portal launched

A broadband over powerline (BPL) information portal has been created by the Australian Communications Authority (ACA).

The ACA site will provide background information on BPL technology and the interim arrangements for trialling it in Australia. It will also carry details of trials that are already underway here in Australia.

Power companies are interested in the technology and are considering using it to provide broadband data access to consumers as well as to manage the electrical supply network.

Acting Chairman Dr Bob Horton said the ACA had developed regulatory guidelines for testing BPL technology.

The ACA had also started a comprehensive examination of the communications regulatory issues associated with BPL for delivery of telecommunications services using electrical power wiring and is consulting with interested stakeholders.

A discussion paper would be released in early April calling for public comment.

”The challenge for the ACA is to set regulatory arrangements that do not unnecessarily inhibit the adoption of BPL technology but at the same time protect radiocommunications services from harmful interference,” Dr Horton said.

“Australia is keeping pace with international deployment of BPL technology. Government regulators in the European Union, United States and other countries have either prepared, or are preparing, regulatory frameworks to accommodate in-house and access BPL technologies.”

To view the information portal go to the ACA Website.

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