A Legacy of Innovation and Leadership

Technological Advancements and Advocacy  

The first decade of the FTTH Council Europe marked a period of rapid technological innovation. The FTTH Council Europe was at the forefront of these changes, advocating for the adoption of new technologies and standards that would enhance fibre network performance and accessibility.  

Beginning in 2007 with the FTTH Handbook, a resource that covers every aspect of the network, from central office to subscriber equipment; from passive to active equipment choices, and encompasses all stages: planning, designing, building, and operations. Moving to 2008, the FTTH set the foundations of what we are calling today Europe’s leading fibre optic summit, an unrivalled experience, sharing in depth knowledge of FTTH and other end-to-end fibre enabled technologies & solutions.  

Towards a Connected Future 

In recent years, the FTTH Council Europe has been at the forefront of advancing the fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) industry, not only in terms of deployment but also by promoting adoption and sustainability. With over 160 members, the Council is dedicated to breaking down barriers, advocating for diversity, and inspiring the next generation to join the fibre community. 

The FTTH Council Europe has played a crucial role in achieving 70% FTTH coverage across Europe, with a 50% take-up rate and 35% penetration. However, the Council acknowledges the disparities between countries and the lag in rural coverage, highlighting the need for continued efforts. Looking ahead, the Council forecasts 90% FTTH coverage by 2030, but anticipates that 40% of the population may still remain unconnected, underscoring the importance of increased adoption efforts. 

The FTTH Council Europe strongly supports the proposed copper switch-off, emphasizing the economic and environmental advantages of a fully fibre-based environment. The Council believes that establishing a clear migration path will provide certainty for investors, stimulate investment, and encourage greater uptake by end-users. However, the Council stresses that as long as copper and fibre networks operate in parallel, these benefits will be limited. To ensure a successful transition, the Council calls for clear guidelines from the European Commission and close monitoring by National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs). 

The FTTH Council Europe has also been a key advocate for the European Electronic Communications Code (EECC), which has spurred significant investment in fibre roll-out and reshaped the competitive landscape. The Council underscores the importance of maintaining regulatory stability while also making necessary adjustments to ensure the economic sustainability of investments, particularly in today’s challenging macroeconomic environment. The Council further supports greater industry engagement to enhance the EU Taxonomy for green investment, ensuring it is grounded in robust, science-based metrics. 

“It’s also a place for your young talents. I would all encourage you to send your best people here. It’s not a cost expense, this is their personal growth. This is the way to learn faster and to have an influence not only on your company, but on the industry as a whole” – Paul Naastepad, President 2004

Voices from our leaders 

Hear from our past Presidents and Director Generals, who have been instrumental in shaping the FTTH Council Europe in the past 20 years

Milestones and Achievements

Over the past 20 years, the FTTH Council Europe has achieved numerous milestones: 
 

----------2004

Foundation of the FTTH Council Europe

---------------------2007

First edition of the FTTH Handbook

-------------------------------2008

First annual FTTH Conference, now the leading fibre optic event in Europe
 

------------------------------------------2012

Publication of the first FTTH Market Panorama, a comprehensive study of fibre deployment in Europe

-------------------------------------------------------2019

Inclusion of fibre in the Electronic Communications Code, referencing fibre in the definition of very high-capacity networks

-------------------------------------------------------------------2024

Organisation of the first ever regional FTTH congress in Dubrovnik, Croatia, pushing our mission in regions that deserve greater attention

A step into the future

As we look into the past two decades of activities, we realise a lot has been accomplished. However, our goal is not fulfilled yet. Together with our Members, we are projected into the challenges and opportunities ahead. The path to full-fibre is far from being complete; together, we can achieve our mission.