The German Ministry for Transport and Digital Infrastructure has laid out a five-point plan representing its strategy to accelerate the construction of 4G and 5G networks, and close white spots in mobile coverage.
The first point of the plan refers to improving mobile coverage by increasing fines for operators that do not obey supply rules, from up to EUR 100,000 to up to EUR 1 million, or 2 percent of yearly revenues. The government believes that in addition to nationwide coverage for households and business parks, LTE networks must serve traffic routes, tourist attractions and agricultural areas, too.
The second point of the plan supports the construction of a 5G network in six phases, from 2019 to 2021. During this period, 5G will be tested in research projects, regions and cities. The third point foresees an increase in the number of areas and in infrastructure to build the network, while the fourth point concerns reducing the length of proceedings to allow network infrastructure construction to four months.
Finally, the government intends to set up an online portal to consolidate the information on construction, infrastructure and properties, which will be available to mobile network operators and municipalities, in one single source.
