Copper-glass migration: consumer advocates call for transparent shutdown plans

If copper lines are switched off, there is a risk of supply gaps. The German Federation of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) therefore warns regulators and politicians that households "must always be supplied with Internet" despite the planned copper-to-glass migration. In its statement on the Federal Network Agency's impulse paper for the transition to fiber optics, the association also points out that switching to fiber optic lines can result in significant price increases.

For consumers, it is therefore essential "that the copper-to-glass migration is safeguarded by clear requirements for continuity of supply and the introduction of comparable low-cost entry-level offers", emphasizes the vzbv in the recently published submission. Transition periods of several years, standards for transparent information and non-discriminatory access to Deutsche Telekom's upstream services for competitors must ensure "that those affected experience the technology change without disadvantages".

A public map or database should indicate the end of DSL in individual locations. Furthermore, a public information campaign should be launched quickly to inform consumers about the process before the planned switch-off of their copper connection. This should include options such as the offer of fiber optics or the choice of alternative providers. This should be accompanied by "an individual step-by-step plan" as soon as a specific DSL switch-off date has been set.

Cheaper fiber optics with less bandwidth

In general, continuity of supply should be guaranteed, the vzbv emphasizes. Copper connections may only be disconnected when consumers at the respective location "have access to an equivalent Internet connection". After the migration, fiber optic tariffs must be offered with comparably low transmission rates and corresponding prices as before the changeover. Migration-related one-off costs should be shown transparently in advance and be proportionate. Hidden surcharges on contract fees are inadmissible.

Providers should give customers "incentives to voluntarily migrate to the fiber optic network", the report continues. "Forced migration should be prevented as far as possible." If such migration can no longer be avoided at a certain point in time, it should "only take place after the minimum contractual term has expired". By then, those affected must actually be able to be offered "equivalent access products at comparable conditions".

With around 23.6 million connections, around two thirds of German telecommunications customers still surf via Telekom's traditional copper DSL network, the vzbv points out. Nevertheless, the first official "switch-off applications from Telekom" are expected "before the end of this year".

Currently, almost every second fiber optic customer (48%) reports problems such as delays in expansion. Switching consumers to mobile or satellite technology as an alternative is sometimes associated with extra costs for hardware, limited data volume and gaps in coverage, the consumer advocates point out.

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