October 21, 2019

Article 22 of the European Electronic Communications Code Directive (2018/1972/EU) requires NRAs and/or other competent authorities to conduct a geographical survey of the reach of electronic communications networks capable of delivering broadband by 21 December 2023 and to update it at least every three years.

The draft Guidelines provide guidance on common approaches to develop the geographical surveys. NRAs must take utmost account of the Guidelines.

The Guidelines cover:

• definitions;
• sources of information for geographical surveys;
• the spatial resolutions to be used for data collection for fixed and mobile broadband networks;
• the types of information that NRAs must obtain in order to characterise the reach and performance of broadband network;
  • for fixed broadband, the data requirements on the type of resolution approach chosen by the NRA;
  • for mobile broadband, a proposal for the characterisation of the reach of the mobile broadband network;
• information on how to start the mapping process and which data are relevant;
• recommendations on information that should be requested to implement surveys of forecasts of broadband reach relevant to the regulatory and policy functions referred to in Article 22 of the Directive; and
• guidance on the publication, confidentiality and aggregation of data to provide information to third users.

The consultation closes on 21 November 2019. To access the consultation, click here.