[LINK] An Overhead NBN

[stephen at melbpc.org.au]

> 
> Overall wouldn't powerpole NBN FTTH optical be cheaper than FTTN systems? 
>

The Electrical Trade Union NBN construction co-ordinator David Mier said: 

"Utilising the existing electricity poles and wires - which already run 
down most streets in the country - would slash construction costs, allowing 
a world-class, high-speed fibre-to-the-home broadband network to be 
delivered cheaper and quicker than the model Mr Turnbull took to the 
Federal Election."


Answer in Sight over National Broadband Network Cabling

BY SHELLEY HADFIELD, HERALD SUN, NOVEMBER 07, 2013 9:00PM

THE company rolling out the National Broadband Network says it will 
consider more above-ground cabling in Victoria.

The massive project is currently the subject of a comprehensive strategic 
review.

Asked if NBN Co would think about lifting the ratio of above-ground cabling 
in Victoria, spokesman Andrew Sholl said all rollout options were under the 
microscope.

"Everything is under consideration at the moment - there are no 'no-go 
areas' in the strategic review," Mr Sholl said.

He said if power utilities or the State Government wanted more overhead 
cabling, they must put their case to NBN Co or the Federal Government.

No case has yet been put by Victoria.

The Electrical Trade Union has weighed into the debate, welcoming a push 
for a large part of the NBN to be rolled out above ground.

"We've yet to be presented with any firm proposal to use more overhead 
infrastructure," Mr Sholl said.

"We already have a 30-year deal to lease Telstra's network of underground 
pipes, the intention of which is to keep construction costs down and to 
minimise disruption to the community."

Any renegotiation of the deal would hinge upon the outcome of the strategic 
review, he said.

Recommendations will be contained in the strategic review, which will go to 
the Federal Government on December 2.

The Electrical Trade Union advocates overhead cabling as a better and more 
cost-effective technique.

ETU NBN construction co-ordinator David Mier said: "Utilising the existing 
electricity poles and wires - which already run down most streets in the 
country - would slash construction costs, allowing a world-class, high-
speed fibre-to-the-home broadband network to be delivered cheaper and 
quicker than the model Mr Turnbull took to the Federal Election," Mr Mier 
said.
--

Cheers,
Sephen



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