UK regulator Ofcom has published its final decision on compensating providers delivering universal broadband services.
BT and Kcom have been selected to deliver the broadband universal service obligation (USO), which has been available since 20 March 2020. This allows anyone unable to get a decent broadband connections (download 10 Mbps/upload 1 Mbps at least) to request a connection. Ofcom is responsible for implementing the broadband USO and for setting up an industry fund to compensate the universal service providers for any unfair costs they incur.
The new regulations will allow Ofcom to assess funding requests from the USPs and determine if they have incurred a net cost that is unfair. It will also establish an industry fund, and decide who contributes to the fund.