A year after the initial parliamentary discussion, the anticipated amendment to the Telecommunications Act is scheduled for approval by the cabinet next Wednesday. The federal government states this will create “more momentum and less bureaucracy” in expanding digital infrastructure, according to Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger speaking to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland.
Wildberger’s statement also addresses a recently published monitoring report concerning the €500 billion special fund for expansion, which revealed that only €1.6 billion was spent on broadband rollout compared to planned figures. While acknowledging significant delays in the projects-which often occur because funds are dispersed only upon completing specific construction phases-the Minister asserted they would tackle these issues during the upcoming cabinet meeting.
Crucial to this infrastructure build-out is connecting networks within rental housing, as internet access only becomes particularly fast when fiber optic lines run directly into the residences. However, numerous industry associations are vigorously opposing these plans, warning of potential infringements on fundamental rights. Another sensitive topic involves the market standing of Deutsche Telekom, which, formerly a state monopoly, aims to further expand its share in the fiber optics market, alarming its rivals within the sector.
Addressing demand challenges amid these developments, Wildberger conceded that usage remains an issue. He noted that only about a quarter of households opt for fiber optic service, even when it is available, because many prefer copper connections due to lower costs. Consequently, the Minister stated that they must rebalance the relationship between consumer protection, affordability, security, and quality.
