A financial and technological model for public regional broadband infrastructure

Abstract

Building an optical telecommunication network that allows operators offering broadband connection services stimulates the competitiveness and supports the spreading of services in a digital divided region. All the operators that wish to offer services to companies and private citizens can take advantage of this network, which allows them keeping their own operative independence while reaching the marginal areas in an effective way. This paper describes both financial and technological aspects of the successful development plan for a regional broadband infrastructure in Regione Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy, evaluating costs and benefits of such long-term investments. Analyzing the regional project from a macro-economic point of view, the model appears to be attractive for all the involved stakeholders. Public intervention makes also the Region attractive to ICT operators, and more in general to investors.