By Edith Hancock
DOW JONES–The European Commission wants to make it easier for telecom companies to modernize Europe’s critical networks. To do this, they should be given expanded access to radio frequencies while copper networks are gradually switched off over the next ten years.
The European Union’s executive branch announced that it would introduce a mandatory phase-out of copper networks for EU member states and a transition to modern networks between 2030 and 2035 as part of the draft law “Digital Networks Act” presented on Wednesday. The term “frequency spectrum” refers to a range of radio frequencies that are essential for electronic communications.
“A powerful and resilient digital infrastructure is crucial to strengthen Europe’s leadership in innovation, competitiveness and digital sovereignty,” said Henna Virkkunen, EU Commissioner for Technology, in a statement. “Advanced and accessible connectivity will enable startups to harness the potential of AI and allow doctors to provide quick and safe care to patients remotely,” she said.
According to the planned rules, the EU aims to grant network operators unlimited access to the spectrum. “Individual use rights granted for an unlimited period of time to the radio frequency spectrum of wireless broadband networks and services should be subject to regular reviews by national competent authorities, including coverage and quality of service obligations,” says the draft published on Wednesday.
The regulations still need the approval of the member states and the European Parliament before they can come into force.
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(END) Dow Jones Newswires
January 21, 2026 12:45 ET (17:45 GMT)