Swedish govt guarantees universal internet access at 10 Mbps

The Swedish government has passed a regulation to ensure that everyone in Sweden is able to get internet service at a minimum of 10 Mbps for downloads. The regulation sets a maximum cost of SEK 5,000 for any home or business to get an internet line functioning well enough for them to play a part in society. The rule guaranteeing universal access enters force on 01 March 2018.

The government has commissioned postal and telecoms regulator PTS to carry out the guarantee. It will ensure that those still without a fixed wireless line will be covered by the new state guarantee. Parties must be able to prove that they cannot get a connection at 10 Mbps from a commercial provider at a reasonable cost. The telecoms watchdog said it is getting ready to receive applications and will provide more information in spring.

PTS said there is nearly universal reception, even in sparsley populated areas, to service by at least three types of network, possibly using a mobile grid or satellite coverage. It said that in May 2017, there were 1,100 homes and businesses without 10 Mbps service via fibre, other fixed line equipment or via the mobile network. It also said that in the same month, there were 300 addresses without any type of access to 10 Mbps service.

Digitisation Minister Peter Eriksson said a service at 10 Mbps is enough to stream video on SVT Play, keep in touch with contacts on Skype, and run a business.