BPL moving closer in Australia

There are strong indications that the introduction of broad-band over powerlines, BPL, is getting closer in Australia.

The technology could be available to consumers in Tasmania within a few months, and two companies are trialling it in New South Wales. With the very latest, here is Jim Linton VK3PC.

Tasmania's electricity distribution and retail company, Aurora Energy has announced it will have a major commercial trial of BPL by mid-2005.

It has hailed as a success, Australia's first pilot trial of the technology conducted in May this year that involved four houses and part of the company's office building in Hobart.

In its annual report, Aurora Energy claims very competitive Internet data rates for the technology accessed via power points when compared to that available through the telecommunications network.

Meanwhile, an industry newsletter reports that another company, Energy Australia, ran a BPL trial in Newcastle, making it Australia's second serious trial of the technology.

A third power company, Country Energy is expected to run a trial in Queanbeyan, near Canberra, before the end of this month.

The power industry believes that BPL is ready and now only awaits a decision by the Australian Communications Authority.

The ACA's current review of its "Regulatory Philosophy and Compliance Policy" and recent work through the Radio Consultative Committee, are all moving towards an announcement on Australia's regulatory approach to BPL.

Jim Linton VK3PC

Source: Wireless Institute of Australia

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