The slow roll-out of BT's high-speed broadband network means internet access in much of the UK remains sluggish and unable to perform to its full potential. But help could be on the horizon―courtesy of your local electricity company. This year a rash of utility firms in continental Europe are experimenting with digital powerline (DPL) technology, or powerline communications (PLC), using their electricity cables as a conduit for internet access. And commercial services are starting to be offered in several countries, including Germany, Spain, France and Scandinavia. The technology could be a competitor to cable and digital subscriber lines (DSLs), or even leased lines for businesses. It is also seen as standing the best chance of commercial take-up pf cable in areas where alternative and more established access technologies such as cable modem and DSL are not yet available. Nor is it just the utilities that are taking an interest: several companies have also released technology that lets DPL work in homes and offices, using the ring main.
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