The deployment and adoption of Fiber to the Home (FTTH) networks is of utmost importance in Europe, as it forms the backbone of the digital infrastructure needed to support economic growth, social cohesion, and technological innovation. However, the deployment of FTTH networks is a complex and multifaceted endeavour, requiring careful planning, substantial investment, and effective regulation. The policy and regulatory framework governing FTTH deployment in Europe is therefore of utmost importance, as it has an impact on investors willingness to invest, the level of those investments, the pace of deployment, and the quality and terms of services ultimately offered to end-users.
We hope that this guide on policy and regulation in the field of FTTH in Europe will prove to be a valuable resource for companies, policymakers, investors, and other stakeholders who are interested in gaining and deepening their knowledge about the fundamentals of the policy and regulation framework that is relevant for the deployment of FTTH networks in Europe. This guide aims to help navigate the complex and rapidly evolving policy and regulatory landscape. While most of the guide is focused on the European Union (EU), it also touches upon certain aspects in non-EU markets in Europe, such as the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and others. The guidebook will be regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in the EU regulatory framework governing FTTH deployment, ensuring that readers have access to the most up-to-date and relevant information.
This guide is developed by the FTTH Council Europe, whose mission is to advance ubiquitous full fibre-based connectivity to the whole of Europe. By working together and fostering exchanges between our members, we are aiming to ensure that Europe remains a global leader in the digital economy, and that all citizens have access to the high-speed connectivity they need to thrive in the digital age.