The topic of copper switch-off and migration to fibre is one of the central topics in the Gigabit Forum. The implementation and evaluation of pilot projects proposed by WIK plays a central role in this. From February until August 2024 a pilot project was carried out in three pilot areas, in each of which different migration scenarios were tested.
In this pilot project, valuable experience was gained on measures to facilitate migration for network operators, wholesale customers and end users. However, the project also showed what challenges still need to be overcome before mass migration and copper switch-off can take place.
At process level, wholesale and end customer processes must be prepared, coordinated and aligned in the companies. For the mass migration, (new) IT processes must be developed or functionalities added to the existing IT what may well take 1-2 years. As the copper switch-off will take place on an area-by-area basis, these processes will also have to be applied on an area-by-area basis.
When deciding on the appropriate switch-off unit, it is important to weigh up the technical feasibility (more orientated towards smaller MSAN/street cabinet-areas) and the suitability for targeted communication measures (more orientated towards larger local authorities).
A targeted customer approach aimed at persuading end customers to voluntarily switch from copper to alternative connection technologies before copper switch-off is also difficult in some cases due to legal restrictions.
For the transition from Homes Passed to Homes Connected, the connection of the building on the property and the in-building wiring must still be rolled-out. The pilot project has confirmed that building owners can take on a gatekeeper role that is not always conducive to fibre roll-out and migration.
Extensive preparation rolling-out FTTH Homes Connected should significantly simplify subsequent mass migration. The roll-out of Homes Connected in the initial network roll-out should therefore be accelerated and facilitated by legal changes.
Proposed solutions were identified for the network densification of Homes Passed to Homes Connected, the removal of barriers to the roll-out of in-building infrastructure and to addressing customers.
