(2004/C 78 E/0355)

WRITTEN QUESTION P-4008/03

by Fernando Fernández Martín (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(22 December 2003)

Subject:   Powerline Communications Systems

The rapid development of communications in recent years has stimulated detailed research with a view to ensuring the rational ordering of the radioelectric spectrum with a view to best use. In parallel, a number of operators have tried to exploit the possibilities of ‘Powerline Communications Systems’ (PLC), which permit the use of existing electricity networks for the transmission of other types of signal. However, this option is not without its disadvantages, especially regarding the generation of signals disturbing and interfering with the activities of other radioelectric spectrum users, especially for short-wave frequencies. This is already happening in numerous EU Member States.

Is the Commission aware that Powerline Communications Systems (PLC) can generate interference and emit undesirable radiation?

What precautionary measures could be adopted by the Commission or are under consideration by it to prevent the emission of signals that cause interference and pollute the radioelectric spectrum?

Answer given by Mr Liikanen on behalf of the Commission

(26 January 2004)

All networks that use copper cabling, whether they use telephone cables (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), Very-High-Data-Rate Digital Subscriber Line (VDSL)), television distribution networks, special cables (Local Area Networks-LAN) or electricity cables (Power Line Communications or PLC) are a source of electromagnetic disturbance, the level of which depends on many factors. Market penetration is an important factor, although technical factors such as cable length, signal power levels and the location of radio receivers also determine whether there is interference.

All such networks are subject to Directive 89/336/EEC (1), which requires them to ensure that electromagnetic disturbance does not exceed a level allowing radio and telecommunications equipment and other apparatus to operate as intended. In order to ensure a common application of the Directive for telecommunication networks, the Commission mandated in 2001 the European Standardisation Organisations (ETSI) and the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization (Cenelec) to draft a standard covering electromagnetic emission and immunity characteristics of telecommunication networks, including PLC.

Due to the inherent complexity of the task, no standard has yet been finalised. In contrast to the millions of ADSL and LAN connections that are operational in the Union, there are currently only around 6000 PLC lines, which employ a variety of technologies and which are still being improved.

In developing a standard, the Union must be careful not to stifle innovation. The Commission is of course aware of the concerns of radio users on the effects of this specific technology and their call for absolute and unconditional protection of radio services using short wave bands. Such concerns bear relevance to many other technologies. Electromagnetic compatibility is about seeking the right balance between the various interests: on the one hand, the interests of certain operators to compete with other telecommunications operators in the local loop, thereby providing real user choice in broadband telecommunication services; on the other hand, the interests of radio users to be able to receive signals, even in the worst propagation conditions.

Since the technologies used for PLC are still being improved and the deployment of the technology is still in its infancy, it is too early to draw any definitive conclusions on this issue. Regulators in the Union should allow, and are allowing, a deployment of networks under the condition that operators avoid interference where it may occur. In the case of Spain, the regulator has licensed a number of networks. The licence requires a resolution of interference problems, where they exist. Such an approach is fully compatible with the Directive 89/336/EEC and will allow for a better-informed debate on standards.

The Commission is considering adopting a recommendation that will enable the Community to deal with this issue in a balanced and informed way.

(1)  Council Directive 89/336/EEC of 3 May 1989 on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility, OJ L 139, 23.5.1989.