The Long Tail of Loop Distance for Broadband over Power Lines: Finding a New Niche for Rural Telecommunications in Brazil

Broadband over power lines (BPL) is considered an attractive broadband delivery system because it can reach more homes than coaxial cable systems or telephone lines. In markets not served by DSL or cable, BPL can provide a cost-effective connectivity solution. Also known as "third wire" technology, BPL offers applications to rural and remote areas in attractive modes like: (1) high speed backbone over medium voltage power lines; (2) last mile access network through residential power distribution; (3) last inch access to distribute data communication inside home. Considering the fact that network deployment costs can be reduced if signals are transmitted in an existing infrastructure, current status of BPL can be evaluated as an option to ICT provision in rural and remote areas. This study presents a model to position BPL among other access technologies, considering its applications to Brazilian rural areas.