Sydney, Oct 6, 2006 (ABN Newswire) - Many utilities around the world are recognising the natural competitive advantage they have in telecommunications, via Power Line Communications, and its upgraded technology Broadband Powerline (BPL). This comes from the infrastructure they have in place (ducting, building access, poles), their systems (billing, call centres) and a core competency in network management and maintenance. They also have a strong relationship with, and an understanding of, a large customer base. It is a natural extension of their business activities for power companies to enter into telecommunications.
BPL is performing well, when compared with most other technologies. The next step is to make the transition from the current trial status to the commercial arena, and this will require the establishment of an appropriate regulatory framework to support the technological developments that are occurring.
The federal, state and territory governments recently suggested a national rollout of energy-saving smart meters commencing in 2007. Trials are underway in all states, some using off line solutions, others narrowband communications. However, this meter overhaul is an once-in-a-lifetime chance to propel Australia to the forefront of this development - let's not waste it. A smart-reader broadband infrastructure (BPL) could well lead to a third national broadband platform, next to telecoms and digital TV. Such a network could save energy costs; is good for the environment; cuts operational network costs and opens up opportunities for new home automation and home networking business opportunities.
Aurora in Tasmania is a global leader in BPL with advanced plans to deliver true broadband services to Tasmania. The company is steaming ahead and there will be an update on the project.
BPL is also an integral part of the UtiliTel's response to Broadband Connect. UtiliTel works together with other companies within the Wholesale Industry Group. And the latest updates on these developments will also be discussed.
Topics will include:
- Smart metering and home automation
- Network automation
- Demand side management
- Broadband BPL
- VoIP and IPTV
- Networking fibre with BPL
- International standardisation still 2 years away?
- The truth about radio interference
- BPL for home networking
Venue: The Observatory Hotel, 89-113 Kent Street, Sydney
Networking dinner - Tuesday (night before the Roundtable) 17th of October
Theme - Investments and Partnerships
With the government's guidelines out in the open, and a deadline for end November, the various consortia are now busily getting their plans together.
With government funding in place, and some very solid partnerships in the making, there is increased interest in issues such as equity investments, partnerships and around the corner mergers and acquisitions are appearing on the horizon.
It is also appropriate for the financial market to participate in the debate in order to achieve outcomes that are financially realistic and viable.
The exact format of this networking dinner will be based on your input. Let me know if you have any ideas and suggestions.
Paul Budde is the Managing Director of Paul Budde Communication (trading as BuddeComm), an independent global telecommunications research and consultancy company, which includes 45 national and international researchers in 15 countries. The company operates from Bucketty, in the Lower Hunter Valley, Australia.
Contact
PAUL BUDDE Communication Pty Ltd, T/As BuddeComm 5385 George Downes Drive BUCKETTY NSW 2250B, Ph 02 49 988 144 (international x 61 2 4998 8144) Fx 02 49 988 247 (international x 61 2 4998 8247) mailto:pbc@budde.com.au http://www.budde.com.au
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