EU Connectivity and Social Vouchers Quiz
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Questions and Answers

Who is the primary target audience for social vouchers?

  • Middle-income families seeking upgrades
  • All consumers regardless of income
  • Low-income households in vulnerable situations (correct)
  • Businesses looking for broadband solutions

    • What is the main purpose of connectivity vouchers?

  • To promote digital inclusion for low-income households
  • To reduce financial burdens on consumers
  • To encourage broadband take-up and service upgrades (correct)
  • To provide free broadband services for all users

    • What percentage of eligible costs can social vouchers cover?

  • Up to 100% (correct)
  • Up to 75%
  • Up to 50%
  • Up to 25%

    • What is a key difference in the duration of social and connectivity vouchers?

    <p>Social vouchers always last longer than connectivity vouchers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do social vouchers impact market competition among broadband providers?

    <p>They have little direct impact on market competition</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum duration for individual connectivity vouchers?

    <p>Two years</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement correctly describes both social and connectivity vouchers?

    <p>They are designed to be technologically neutral</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which option correctly outlines the financial coverage of connectivity vouchers?

    <p>Cover up to 50% of eligible costs with certain caps</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of the blended finance approach?

    <p>It allows for a more efficient use of public funds by attracting private investment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary objective of the CEF program when a Member State applies for funding?

    <p>Bridging the digital divide</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect is NOT typically incorporated into projects using the blended finance model?

    <p>Immediate profitability for investors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must the Member State demonstrate when applying for funding from the ERDF?

    <p>The project's impact on regional development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the European Investment Bank (EIB) play in the blended finance model?

    <p>It provides loans and guarantees to de-risk projects for private investors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What determines if a project involving EU funds requires notification for state aid approval?

    <p>The use of EU funds under shared management</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What target does the Digital Decade Policy Programme aim for in terms of digital skills?

    <p>80% of the population aged 16-74 to have basic digital skills.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key step the Member State must take if the project does not meet State aid exceptions?

    <p>Notify the European Commission</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which objective of the Digital Decade Policy Programme emphasizes gender balance?

    <p>Ensuring 20 million ICT specialists are employed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What information does the Member State need to include in the notification to the European Commission?

    <p>The geographic scope of the project</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key areas of focus in the Digital Decade Policy Programme?

    <p>Digital transformation of businesses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the factors the European Commission assesses during its review?

    <p>The potential distortion of competition</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What essential factor motivates private sector participation in blended finance projects?

    <p>An attractive financial package that includes public and private funding.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes a complex aspect of state aid approval for co-funded projects?

    <p>The requirement for thorough justification of state aid usage</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of projects supported by the blended finance approach?

    <p>They often incorporate assessments related to sustainability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one potential benefit of combining CEF and ERDF funding?

    <p>Enhanced infrastructure development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of the Broadband Guidelines?

    <p>To provide guidance on compliance with State aid rules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which article of the EU framework specifically addresses social vouchers in the context of broadband?

    <p>Article 107(2)(a)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does SGEI stand for in the context of the Broadband Guidelines?

    <p>Services of General Economic Interest</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the compatibility conditions mentioned in the Broadband Guidelines?

    <p>Conditions for public funding without competitive distortion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which principle is emphasized in the Broadband Guidelines along with technological neutrality?

    <p>Non-discrimination</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do the Broadband Guidelines relate to Article 107(3)(c)?

    <p>They provide conditions for State aid compatibility in broadband investment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of SGEIs do the Broadband Guidelines clarify?

    <p>The definition and criteria of SGEIs in broadband context</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which situations is State aid considered incompatible with the internal market according to Article 107?

    <p>Aid that distorts competition among service providers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the primary objectives of expanding high-speed internet access to rural areas?

    <p>To develop fiber-optic networks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the EIB contribute to the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF)?

    <p>By providing loans and guarantees for infrastructure projects</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the EIB's involvement in CEF considered strategic?

    <p>It helps attract private investments through its financial capacity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following initiatives is included in the EU's digital strategy supported by the EIB?

    <p>Fostering e-government and e-health services</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of model does the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) utilize for funding?

    <p>A blended finance model combining public and private investments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does cybersecurity play in the EU's digital initiatives supported by the EIB?

    <p>It strengthens infrastructure and promotes digital resilience</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following areas is NOT a focus of the EIB's support within the CEF?

    <p>Health care</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key aspect of the digital transformation that the EIB supports?

    <p>Promoting environmentally friendly infrastructure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) in relation to the Digital Decade Policy Programme (DDPP)?

    <p>To provide financial support for achieving digital transformation objectives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a specific goal of the Digital Decade Policy Programme (DDPP)?

    <p>Ensuring 100% of public services are available online by 2030.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the CEF contribute to enhancing cybersecurity as outlined by the DDPP?

    <p>By funding projects like European Digital Hubs and data exchange infrastructures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the DDPP emphasize regarding connectivity by 2030?

    <p>Achieving gigabit connectivity and 5G coverage in all populated areas.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a tool funded by the CEF for enhancing digital public services?

    <p>Cybersecurity assessments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What strategy is encouraged for Member States under the DDPP?

    <p>To engage in collaboration on multi-country projects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In addition to funding, what aspect of infrastructure does the CEF aim to support according to the DDPP?

    <p>Development of high-capacity networks and critical infrastructures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the shared objectives between the DDPP and the CEF?

    <p>Increasing the availability of interoperable digital public services.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Digital Decade Policy Programme (DDPP) aims for 100% of public services to be available online by 2035.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) provides financial support specifically for the development of digital infrastructure.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The DDPP encourages collaboration on multi-country projects among Member States to slow down digital transformation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The CEF's Digital strand funds projects such as cross-border fiber-optic links and support for eInvoicing.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Both the DDPP and CEF aim to achieve gigabit connectivity and 5G coverage exclusively in urban areas.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The DDPP outlines its vision for secure digital ecosystems, while the CEF funds the establishment of European Digital Hubs.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Interoperable digital public services are not a focus for either the DDPP or the CEF.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The CEF does not contribute to the EU’s Gigabit Society goals outlined in the DDPP.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The presence of multiple 1 Gbps networks indicates a market failure.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Market failure occurs when the market fails to provide widespread access to high-speed broadband.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A rural area with no providers offering 1 Gbps speeds demonstrates efficient market functioning.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Competitive pressure among providers can help mitigate market failure.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Altmark Criteria are irrelevant when assessing state aid for broadband networks.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Low profit margins and limited subscribers can discourage private investment in broadband infrastructure.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Public authorities have no role in justifying the use of public funds for broadband infrastructure if market failure is established.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The concept of 'step change' is not relevant for state aid decisions related to broadband projects.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) only funds transport projects across Europe.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Sustainability is one of the key criteria for funding a project by CEF.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    For a project to be eligible for CEF funding, it must demonstrate significant feasibility and potential for implementation.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    CEF funding can be granted for projects that do not provide economic benefits to the EU.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Projects funded by CEF do not need to focus on improving broadband infrastructure.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Cost-effectiveness is one of the criteria that CEF considers when selecting projects for funding.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Interoperability within the EU network is not a priority for CEF project funding.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A project to improve public transportation systems does not qualify for CEF funding because it is not related to telecommunications.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Projects directly managed by the EU Commission through CEF normally constitute State aid.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Co-funded projects using both CEF and national public funds may require assessment for State aid compliance.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    EU funds under shared management are always exempt from State aid rules.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The deployment of a high-speed fiber optic network funded by both CEF and the ERDF is an example of a co-funded project.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    CEF plays a significant role in driving economic decline in Europe.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The relationship between State aid and CEF is straightforward and uncomplicated.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Under certain exceptions, State aid does not require notification to the European Commission.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) primarily focuses on supporting social initiatives.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The fourth condition of Altmark is necessary for compatibility under Article 106(2).

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The compatibility assessment under Article 107(3)(c) focuses on ensuring state aid for broadband deployment does not distort competition.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The incentive effect means that aid should discourage private investments in broadband services.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Aid measures must comply with all EU provisions and general principles to be considered compatible.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The aid provided under the compatibility assessment should exceed what is necessary to achieve its objectives.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Aid measures do not need to implement a competitive selection process to be compatible.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Transparency and reporting mechanisms are essential for the implementation of aid measures.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Addressing market failure is irrelevant in assessing the compatibility of state aid for broadband services.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Article 106(2) allows Member States to grant aid to companies providing SGEIs without any conditions.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The assessment of compatibility with Article 106(2) is straightforward and requires minimal analysis.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Undertakings with exclusive rights are exempt from competition rules according to Article 106(2) TFEU.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    SGEIs are considered essential services that may not be commercially viable without government support.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Funding for SGEIs that do not meet the Altmark conditions is regarded as State aid and must be evaluated under Article 106(2).

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Article 107(1) prohibits State aid only if it is incompatible with the internal market in all cases.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Commission has no role in ensuring the application of Article 106(2) TFEU.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The development of trade must be negatively affected for it to be contrary to the interests of the Union under Article 106(2).

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The White Paper aims to achieve digital sovereignty by 2030.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) aims to reduce dependency on non-EU data providers.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The CEF solely funds the development of physical infrastructure and does not cover digital projects.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Digital Decade Policy Programme includes numerical targets for achieving gigabit connectivity.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    CEF's Digital strand is not related to enhancing digital public services.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Both the White Paper and CEF emphasize enhancing cybersecurity and reducing data dependency.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The CEF is irrelevant to the goals set in the White Paper for 2030.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Building Blocks provided by the CEF assist in digitizing public administrations.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    CEF II focuses primarily on enhancing transportation infrastructure across Europe.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Digital Global Gateways support projects related to Europe's digital infrastructure.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The focus of CEF I was on digital connectivity and cybersecurity.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    5G corridors are constructed to support the development of smart mobility and autonomous driving.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    CEF II includes funding for projects aimed at bridging the digital divide in rural areas.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Backbone Interconnection projects aim to connect high-performance computational facilities.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    CEF II seeks to eliminate the need for digital security improvements across the EU.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    5G Communities specifically fund 5G networks in urban centers.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Aid to promote economic development in areas with high living standards is compatible with the internal market.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Altmark Criteria detail the compensation for services of general economic interest (SGEIs) to ensure transparency.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A key compatibility condition for aid in the broadband sector is that it should incentivize private investors.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Public funding must be a more effective policy instrument than alternative measures to be considered appropriate.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The aid intervention must address a market failure or inequalities, demonstrating that private investment alone suffices.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The procedural requirements for granting aid must lack transparency and disregard EU procurement rules.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Proportionality in aid means it should be limited to the minimum necessary to avoid distorting competition.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The blended finance model relies solely on public funding for project implementation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Broadband Guidelines provide a framework for public authorities to evaluate and implement SGEI projects related to any economic sector.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Digital Decade Policy Programme aims to ensure at least 80% of the population aged 16-74 have basic digital skills.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Sustainability practices are a significant consideration in projects utilizing blended finance.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The EIB is primarily responsible for project development and operation in blended finance.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Wholesale access promotes increased competition among broadband providers, leading to higher prices for end users.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Digital Decade Policy Programme has no specific targets for the gender balance in the tech workforce.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Bitstream access enables operators to lease bandwidth without controlling the physical infrastructure.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The primary aim of the Connecting Europe Facility is to facilitate public infrastructure investments only.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Blended finance does not typically reduce the perceived risks for private investors.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Access to passive infrastructure includes only leased bandwidth and does not allow operators to deploy their own equipment.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The National Regulatory Authority (NRA) plays a significant role in defining appropriate wholesale access products for operators.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    One of the objectives of the Digital Decade Policy Programme is the digital transformation of businesses.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In grey and black areas, operators are required to unbundle their virtual access to the network instead of leasing physical parts of the network.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Public authorities must conduct a public consultation about the type of wholesale access they intend to provide.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    VULA stands for Very Unbundled Local Access and allows operators to access the infrastructure virtually.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Ensuring fair and non-discriminatory access prevents dominant players from monopolizing the market.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A new network must only match the capabilities of existing networks to justify public intervention.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In white and grey areas, the new network is required to at least double the download speed of the fastest existing network.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    For black areas, the new network must offer at least 1 Gbps download and 300 Mbps upload speeds to address market failure.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Mapping exercises are considered unnecessary for public consultation regarding broadband investments.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The overall area can be classified as white if grey spots make up less than 10% of the area.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The new backhaul network must be based on fiber or similar technologies to offer superior performance.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Performance assessments in mapping should be conducted during off-peak times for accuracy.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The mapping process assesses only the download speeds of existing networks.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    How White Paper Relates to CEF

    • White Paper and CEF share common objectives to improve Europe's digital infrastructure and sovereignty.
    • White Paper aims for digital sovereignty, strong infrastructure, and sustainability by 2030.
    • CEF funds projects for cross-border digital infrastructure, broadband networks, and digital public services.
    • CEF implements infrastructure goals in the White Paper, like widespread 5G and secure cloud.
    • Digital Decade Policy Program (DDPP) sets out targets, CEF funds projects aligning with these targets.
    • CEF Digital strand funds broadband, 5G for all populated areas.
    • Both initiatives prioritize digitalizing public services, CEF through eID, eDelivery.
    • White Paper seeks to reduce non-EU data dependence and improve cybersecurity, CEF aligns with these goals.
    • Examples of CEF-funded projects include EDI and DSI.
    • Resources for further exploration are available for White Paper's objectives and CEF links.

    How the Digital Decade Policy Programme Relates to CEF

    • The Digital Decade Policy Programme (DDPP) and CEF work together towards digital transformation by 2030.
    • DDPP sets overarching EU-wide targets for digital transformation focused on connectivity, digital skills, digital services, and business digitalization.
    • CEF provides the financial mechanism to support and implement the DDPP objectives.
    • DDPP emphasizes gigabit connectivity and 5G coverage throughout Europe by 2030.
    • CEF's Digital strand funds specific infrastructure projects including cross-border fiber optic links, high-performance computing, and digital public service platforms.
    • Both initiatives aim to enhance access to interoperable digital public services.
    • CEF and DDPP are aligned through specific projects and initiatives.

    Specific Conditions for Public Funding for Broadband Investments

    • Public funding doesn't need Commission notification if it falls under EU-level allocation, administrative/regulatory measures, or the Market Economy Operator Principle (MEOP).
    • EU funding not routed through Member States doesn't require notification.
    • Transparent, non-discriminatory measures, available to all users without favouring any particular operator, don't need notification.
    • Projects viable for commercial investors with no public intervention don't require notification.

    Connecting Europe Facility (CEF)

    • CEF is an EU funding initiative.
    • CEF aims to strengthen EU infrastructure in key sectors like transport, energy and telecommunications.
    • CEF funds projects to enhance connectivity and support economic growth.
    • CEF is an integral part of the EU's broader digital strategy and focuses on areas like broadband networks, cybersecurity, and digital public services.
    • CEF criteria include EU interest, feasibility, cost-effectiveness and sustainability to determine eligible projects.

    Difference Between CEF I and II

    • CEF I (2014-2020) focused primarily on building critical infrastructure across Europe.
    • CEF II (2021-2027) places a greater emphasis on digital infrastructure, aligning with the EU's broader digital strategy.
    • CEF II's objectives include Gigabit connectivity, 5G networks, supporting digital public services, and cybersecurity.

    Impact of CEF on European Economies

    • CEF stimulates private investment in crucial infrastructure.
    • CEF fosters innovation in infrastructure development.
    • CEF enhances connectivity to enable businesses to access new markets.
    • CEF supports digital inclusion by bridging the digital divide in rural areas, thus strengthening competitiveness and sustainable development.

    State Aid and CEF Relationship

    • Projects directly managed by the EU Commission through CEF typically do not constitute state aid.
    • Co-funded projects using additional national public funds to supplement CEF resources may constitute state aid and therefore need assessment by the European Commission.

    Co-funded Projects Example

    • Co-funded project example: a high-speed fiber optic network in a rural region using both CEF and national ERDF funds.

    Requirement for State Aid Notification

    • If a project uses EU funds under shared management, it likely constitutes state aid, unless it falls under exceptions (de minimis, block exemption regulation).
    • If an EU project doesn't meet exceptions, the Member State must notify the European Commission.
    • Project must disclose objectives, geographical scope, justification for state aid, and funding mix details.
    • The Commission evaluates the project based on EU state aid regulations regarding preventing competition distortion.

    Shared Management (ERDF/RRF)

    • EU and Member States share responsibility in managing and implementing EU funds (like ERDF and RRF).
    • Member States are responsible for designing and monitoring projects.
    • The EU Commission sets the overarching policy framework, guidelines and regulations for EU funds.
    • Benefits of this approach include tailored approaches relevant to regional requirements, accountability for use of resources, enhanced transparency.
    • Challenges include the complexity of regulations and potential for discrepancies in EU rule interpretation.

    CEF Funding Future Plans

    • Focus will remain on digital connectivity, expanding high-speed internet to rural areas, building fiber optic networks, and upgrading existing networks.
    • Investments in cybersecurity and promoting digital resilience.
    • Support for promoting digital technologies in various sectors.

    EIB and CEF

    • EIB actively involved in supporting EU's digital strategy and various CEF initiatives.
    • EIB's involvement is strategic as it boosts EU competitiveness by attracting private investments.
    • It offers long-term loans, financial guarantees, and blended finance approaches.
    • It helps de-risk investments for the private sector, promoting collaborative approach in infrastructure projects.

    Blended Finance Model in CEF

    • CEF uses a blended finance model to leverage the impact of public funding by attracting private investment.
    • The model combines public funds with private financing.
    • De-risking mechanisms, attractive financial conditions, and collaborative investment frameworks help in the development of infrastructure projects.

    Digital Decade Policy Programme (DDPP) Objectives

    • Empowering citizens with digital skills, reaching 80% digital literacy of 16-74 age group.
    • Enhancing connectivity, achieving 5G and gigabit connectivity in all EU regions.
    • Supporting digital businesses, fostering digital intensity in SMEs.
    • Digitalizing public services, making them accessible to all citizens.

    What are Broadband Services?

    • Broadband refers to high-speed internet, offering fast download and upload.
    • Various tiers exist by varying speed (e.g., high-speed vs ultra-fast).
    • Broadband allows for a wide range of activities, like streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and work online.

    Article 52(d) GBER

    • Exempts backhaul network projects (replace existing infrastructure).
    • Aims to address gaps where no backhaul or existing infrastructure isn't fiber-based.
    • Budget threshold €100 million, €150 million if using financial instruments.
    • Requires Open Access to the new backhaul network for all operators.
    • Projects need sufficient capacity and appropriate technological neutrality.

    Article 52(b) GBER

    • Exempts projects of common interest in the area of trans-European digital connectivity infrastructure.
    • Projects may include 5G corridors, 1Tbps backbone networks, or cloud infrastructures, and are exempt from notification requirements.

    Article 52(c) GBER

    • Connectivity voucher schemes aim to incentivize consumers and SMEs to subscribe to new, or upgrade existing broadband services.
    • Vouchers can provide varying minimum speed depending on user type (consumers vs SMEs).
    • Vouchers can cover certain subscription fees, installation or terminal equipment, up to 50% of the total eligible costs, with a cap on costs.

    Connectivity Vouchers and Social Vouchers

    • Connectivity vouchers: broader scope (consumers and businesses), incentivizing broadband take-up or upgrades.
    • Social vouchers: specific for vulnerable individuals, focusing on affordable access, and covering costs of services.

    Market Impact of Broadband Investments

    • Social vouchers less likely to affect broadband competition compared to Connectivity vouchers.
    • Connectivity vouchers may potentially influence market competition by increasing demand, potentially benefiting certain providers.
    • Appropriate policy instruments, including cost-effectiveness, appropriate regulation and limitations on aid, are crucial in ensuring that policies on broadband investments are appropriate for the context.

    Mapping, Public Consultation and Criteria

    • Mapping exercise used to give an overview of existing/planned broadband networks.
    • Public consultations are crucial because they can gather feedback about the intervention plan and its needs from stakeholders (consumers, operators, etc).
    • Important mapping criteria include download and upload speed, peak-time performance, granularity, and whether specific standards are met for areas with limited existing infrastructure (such as in black/grey areas).

    Difference Between State Aid That Needs Notification and State Aid That Can Be Self-Assessed

    • State aid requiring notification usually involves a higher risk of distorting competition than exempt or self-assessed cases, requiring Commission evaluation.
    • Aid that can be self-assessed is generally considered less risky as its effect on competition is limited or the benefits outweigh potential distortions.

    Ex Post Evaluation

    • Evaluating the project's impact to determine whether the project achieved its goals and objectives.
    • Identify aspects that can be improved in future projects.

    Non-Altmark SGEI Compatibility and 10(2) TFEU

    • SGEIs are services considered crucial for the public good, but not always commercially viable needing government support.
    • Altmark Criteria: a set of conditions for ensuring state aid remains compatible with EU rules.
    • Article 106(2): an exception to the general prohibition on state aid for SGEIs that aren´t compatible with Altmark criteria.

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    Notes for I with Connect PDF

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    Test your knowledge about EU connectivity and social vouchers with this quiz. Explore topics such as the target audience, funding coverage, and implications for market competition. Understand the nuances between social and connectivity vouchers in the context of EU programs.

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