Study: BPL Hype Doesn’t Match Reality

Research firm Energy Insights attacks the Broadband Over Power Line alliance saying the "Hype Doesn't Match Reality". Ouch.

Energy Insights say they are taking a conservative approach in their Broadband over Power Lines forecast. "We believe that a lack of utility expertise in running commercially successful consumer telecom businesses and a poor track record of success, combined with utility reluctance to rapidly adopt new technologies, and competition from DSL, cable modems, and other emerging technologies will limit the growth of BPL," said Rick Nicholson, vice president of research for Energy Insights.

Nicholson seems to really doubt that BPL can turn into a successful business citing high operating and deployment costs. Fortunately the study includes recommendations for the utility companies – how nice of them.

In related news it was also announced today that GE as in General Electric has joined the HomePlug Powerline Alliance board of directors.

If you are interested in the full study, you can download it at Energy-Insights.com.