Transelectric rolls out 460km PLC network

Monday, 28 January 2008

Ecuadorian power utility Transelectric has inaugurated a 460km broadband network using power line communications (PLC), reports BNamericas quoting local newspaper El Comercio. The USD28 million fibre-optic cable network is overlaid on Transelectric’s electricity lines covering the Azuay, El Oro and Loja provinces in the south of the country, and is capable of providing triple-play voice, internet/data and video services. Ecuador began rolling out telecoms infrastructure over power lines in 2003 with 1,900km of fibre-optic cabling serve Quito, Santo Domingo, Riobamba and Ambato. Companies using the infrastructure include state-run fixed line operators Andinatel and Pacifictel. In February Transelectric’s long-distance network is scheduled to be connected to international cable links between Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.