In view of the energy crisis and the EU’s climate goals, European telecom companies are demanding that large tech companies contribute to network costs. American technology companies such as Google, Meta and Netflix are responsible for more than half of internet traffic. You must therefore participate in the modernization of the infrastructure, said 16 European telecom operators – including Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica and Vodafone.
“The costs for planning and construction work are increasing. For example, the prices of fiber optic cables almost doubled in the first half of 2022. The increase in energy prices and the prices of other inputs also affects the interconnection sector,” the companies explained. According to the company bosses, the industry, which annually invests about 50 billion euros in infrastructure, urgently needs more money.
The European Commission is currently examining the possibilities of a draft law. For example, tech companies could be obliged to contribute to the costs of the expansion of 5G and fiber optic cables in the 27 countries of the European Union. The targeted tech companies had previously denied such claims, saying they are already investing in equipment and technology to deliver content more efficiently.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
