The German Minister for Digital Affairs, Karsten Wildberger (CDU), has voiced opposition to a widespread decommissioning of DSL technology. In remarks given to the Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, the Minister cautioned against the habitual practice of simply phasing out existing infrastructure. Instead, he emphasized the need to focus on expanding and enabling new technologies.
Wildberger highlighted the ongoing effort to accelerate the rollout of fiber optic networks, a strategy which includes designating fiber optic expansion as a matter of overriding public interest and streamlining approval processes. He acknowledged, however, that currently only a quarter of customers actively choose fiber optic connections when presented with the option. He attributed this to past heavy investment in copper-based infrastructure, such as DSL technology.
The Minister reported that fiber optic connectivity currently reaches approximately 50 percent of households, with a goal to reach 70 percent by the end of the current legislative period.
Recent criticism of the fiber optic expansion plans from the real estate sector was addressed by Wildberger, who affirmed that he takes these concerns seriously. However, he underscored the necessity of setting priorities, noting that achieving universal satisfaction is rarely possible when pursuing significant infrastructural advancements. He stressed a focus on identifying the optimal outcome and the most effective pathway to achieve it, comparing the process to navigating a complex route.