High-speed Internet underpins all sectors of the economy and will be the backbone of the Digital Single Market. For every 10% increase in the broadband penetration the economy grows by 1 to 1.5%. In this context, the European Commission seeks views on obstacles to invest in broadband infrastructure, ways of improving the use of current infrastructure, coordination of civil engineering works, measures increasing coordination between competent authorities and simplifying permit procedures, and 'readiness' of new buildings for high speed internet infrastructure.

Input is sought from all interested public and private parties including telecoms and utility companies for instance, investors, public authorities and consumers. The public consultation runs until 20 July 2012. The results will contribute to reducing the costs of investments and ultimately the final retail price of broadband.

More information:
http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/policy/ecomm/library/public_consult/cost_reduction_hsi/index_en.htm