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on Regulation |
| By: | Biggar , Darryl (The Ratio Institute); Söderberg, Magnus (The Ratio Institute) |
| Abstract: | What are the best ownership and governance arrangements for a natural monopoly facility? There are three broad approaches: (a) private ownership, coupled with arms-length public utility regulation; (b) some form of government (central, state, or local) ownership; and (c) customer or community ownership. While there is a substantial literature comparing outcomes under private and public (i.e., government) ownership, there is relatively little literature comparing private and/or government ownership with customer ownership. One of the obstacles of performance comparison is that different businesses may choose a different price-quality trade-off, making direct comparison impossible. In this study we cut through this problem by comparing customer perceptions of value-for-money. The study is based on interviews of more than 600 randomly selected electricity distribution customers in Sweden, approximately 150 in each ownership category (municipal, customer, private, and state). These distributors are subject to an identical regulatory framework. The results show that those owned directly by customers are perceived to deliver significantly more value for money than those owned by the government or by private investors. These results lend weight to the view that a well-governed customer-owned utility may lead to better outcomes than other owners" |
| Keywords: | Electricity distribution; Value for money; Ownership; Customer satisfaction; Sweden |
| JEL: | L32 L94 Q48 |
| Date: | 2024–01–18 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:ratioi:0372&r=reg |
| By: | Cave, Jonathan (University of Warwick and Turing Fellow at the Alan Turing Institute); Gibson, Stephen (Mossavar-Rahmani Centre for Business and Government at Harvard Kennedy School.) |
| Abstract: | Impact assessments (IAs) of government regulatory policy proposals set out their expected costs, benefits and risks and who is likely to face those impacts. In the UK, primary legislation can confer powers on Government ministers and other bodies to enact Statutory Instruments (SIs) and other secondary legislation. Because SIs have the same effect as Acts of Parliament, but face significantly less scrutiny, there has been a trend to increase the use of this mechanism and to use them for areas of policy or principle, rather than purely administrative procedures. However, the different timing and treatment of primary and secondary legislation has important implications for the assessment of the impacts of the proposed measures in IAs. This paper outlines the rationale for a compound (primary and secondary) approach to introducing legislation, identifies different types of subordination and considers the implications for estimating their expected impacts in an IA - particularly when the assessment of the secondary measure happens after some of the uncertainty related to the possible outcomes of the primary measure has been resolved and this can be taken into account in the secondary decision(s). It points out the limitations of the conventional NPV-based approach to assessing the impacts of compound measures and proposes the use of a real options approach to IAs to address this concern. In particular it suggests that the real options approach should be used in cases where there are; uncertain outcomes, different possible timings, irreversible policy decisions and distortions due to the use of standard discount rates. Primary legislation creates the opportunity but not the obligation to pursue secondary measures and should be assessed taking these future options into account. |
| Keywords: | Impact assessment ; better regulation ; secondary legislation ; real options |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wrk:warwec:1486&r=reg |
| By: | Fiona M. Scott Morton |
| Abstract: | Business users are needed to help create useful interfaces, while useful interfaces are needed to justify investment and entry by business users. |
| Date: | 2024–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:bre:wpaper:node_9682&r=reg |
| By: | Baum, Leonard; Bryson, Joanna J. (Hertie School) |
| Abstract: | Growing global concern about the problems associated with concentrated market power in the digital economy is leading to a renewed interest in competition policy. Since the late 2010s, China’s government in particular has squarely confronted the problems of its own ‘Big Tech’ with a new competition regime for digital markets. Outcomes represent a unique learning opportunity for Western academics, competition authorities and lawmakers alike, which has so far been underutilized. However, given unreliable official figures, a new methodology is needed to assess the competitive dynamics of China’s digital economy. This article introduces a market capitalization approach that builds on the informativeness of China’s financial markets. We use Bloomberg financial data of 1142 publicly listed firms for the period 2019 to 2022 to identify 16 digital markets. We find that China’s new competition regime has reduced market concentration and aggregate growth in the primary markets of its three most dominant digital platforms – Baidu, Alibaba and Tencent (BATs). Further, our results show a robust correlation between the new regulatory approach and reduced market concentration and market capitalization growth rates across China’s digital markets. Other empirical findings include a negative correlation between market concentration and the openness of digital markets, a non-relationship between market concentration and profits, and the inability of profit and revenue-based metrics to capture market power effectively in China’s digital economy. |
| Date: | 2024–01–14 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:osf:socarx:zyc6s&r=reg |
| By: | Steffen, Nico; Kroon, Peter; Abbasi, Faisal Aman; Wiewiorra, Lukas |
| Abstract: | Digital platforms and data-driven business models have become integral to today's internet economy. Large technology companies like Apple, Google, Amazon and Microsoft exert control over access to online content, products, services and social interactions through their digital ecosystems and associated gatekeeping power. Within these ecosystems, mobile platforms centred around smartphones, operating systems and app stores play an increasingly pivotal role. The recent introduction of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) by the European Union represents a significant development in the regulation of digital platforms and mobile ecosystems. By imposing rules aimed at promoting competition and fair access, the DMA directly motivates an examination of access considerations and pricing structures surrounding digital platforms and app stores. This research report provides an in-depth analysis of the various access modes and stages relevant to apps within dominant digital ecosystems, exploring appropriate remuneration approaches. |
| Keywords: | Digitale Plattform, Mobile Anwendung, Electronic Commerce, Monopol, Netzregulierung, EU-Staaten |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280950&r=reg |
| By: | Daniel Garcia |
| Abstract: | This paper studies a model of search engine competition with endogenous obfuscation. Platforms may differ in the quality of their search algorithms. I study the impact of this heterogeneity in consumer surplus, seller profits and platform revenue. I show that the dominant platform will typically induce higher prices but that consumers may benefit from asymmetries. I also show that enabling sellers to price-discriminate across platforms is pro-competitive. I then embed the static model in a dynamic setup, whereby past market shares lead to a better search algorithm. The dynamic consideration is pro-competitive but initial asymmetries are persistent. |
| Keywords: | search engine, platform competition, consumer search |
| JEL: | D43 D83 L13 M37 |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ces:ceswps:_10856&r=reg |
| By: | Pollitt, M. G. |
| Abstract: | Locational marginal prices (LMPs) are an important design feature of several well-developed electricity markets, particularly in the US. They involve the calculation of energy prices which reflect congestion and losses at particular nodes in the electricity network. They have been hotly debated in Australia and Great Britain, but not implemented so far. In this paper we explore whether and how European countries should adopt LMPs. We consider the concept of locational prices and their use in economics and the theory and evidence on nodal pricing. We discuss key unanswered questions in the literature about nodal pricing before suggesting alternative actions to improve locational signals in the electricity system in Europe, including via the smarter use of LMPs. We conclude that while the theory and modelling behind LMPs is strong, their wider theoretical rationale is less clear cut and the evidence on their impact in use is surprisingly weak. |
| Keywords: | LMPs, nodal pricing, electricity markets |
| JEL: | L94 |
| Date: | 2023–12–29 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cam:camdae:2352&r=reg |
| By: | Newbery, D. |
| Abstract: | Ambitious plans to decarbonise electricity will require high levels of variable renewable electricity (VRE). At high VRE penetration, the surplus that cannot be exported must be curtailed (spilled). The last MW of wind capacity will be curtailed 3+ time more hours than the average, but even in efficiently designed markets, price signals for VRE investment are given by average, not marginal, curtailment, creating a “tragedy of the commons†that requires a corrective charge to restore efficiency. The paper sets out an analytical model calibrated to Ireland in 2026, showing the source of this distortion and estimates of its magnitude. |
| Keywords: | renewable electricity, marginal wind curtailment, integration costs, market failures, inertia charges |
| JEL: | H23 L94 Q28 Q42 Q48 |
| Date: | 2023–12–29 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cam:camdae:2353&r=reg |
| By: | Newbery, D. |
| Abstract: | The target-consistent price of carbon for an electricity sector decarbonizing through massive variable renewable electricity (VRE) depends sensitively on the VRE penetration level, as the marginal curtailment of VRE rises rapidly beyond a certain level. This paper develops a simple linear model to illustrate the relation between the shadow carbon price (SPC) and VRE penetration and calibrates it for the island of Ireland’s 2026 target VRE penetration of 55%. The SPC rises rapidly with increased VRE investment beyond a certain point, and can be used to direct mitigating investment in storage, interconnectors, and other flexibility options. The SPC for the final efficient portfolio will be the target-consistent carbon price for electricity that can help judge the appropriateness of the original target level of VRE penetration. |
| Keywords: | social cost of carbon, variable renewable electricity, marginal curtailment |
| JEL: | H23 L94 Q28 Q42 Q48 |
| Date: | 2023–12–29 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cam:camdae:2361&r=reg |
| By: | Simshauser, P.; Newbery, D. |
| Abstract: | In Australia’s National Electricity Market (NEM), 170+ renewable and battery storage projects reached financial close from 2016-2022, totalling 24GW and $46 billion. With an investment supercycle, not all projects arrive smoothly. Some investors experienced entry frictions from system strength constraints, adverse movements in Marginal Loss Factors and network congestion. Whether these outcomes – which impacted ~20% of entrants – represented workable results in a properly functioning market due to investment error, or arose because of market design defects requiring policy attention, is an open question. An issue that NEM policy advisors are seeking to reform is the non-firm, open access regime. Policy focus is warranted. The ratio of maximum to average wind output is ~3x while solar PV is 4x. Consequently as renewable market share increases, rising levels of curtailment are predictable through excess generation and negative price events, network congestion, or both. But care must be taken with access reform because well-intended ‘intuitive policy prescriptions’ can produce the exact opposite effects by constraining REZ asset productivity, compounding complexity and slow renewable entry rates – the critical variable being the difference between average and marginal curtailment rates. Malalignment between access policy and over-the-counter forward market conventions may distort entry, raise consumer prices and harm welfare. |
| Keywords: | Renewables, Network Congestion, Curtailment, Marginal Curtailment, Renewable Energy Zones |
| JEL: | D52 D53 G12 L94 Q40 |
| Date: | 2023–12–29 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cam:camdae:2363&r=reg |
| By: | Simshauser, P. |
| Abstract: | Scaling-up Variable Renewable Energy will face critical bottlenecks vis-a-vis requisite transmission hosting capacity. Network developments must navigate the complexity of encroaching on private land, risk disturbing sites of cultural significance, compete with other environmental (i.e. biodiversity) objectives, and endure backlash from directly affected communities. Transmission is costly and post-pandemic supply-chain constraints are sending equipment costs higher. Given time and cost risks, existing transmission networks and successful augmentations need to function at their outer operating envelope. In this article, a Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) is examined by comparing static and real-time dynamic line ratings. Historically, static line ratings in the Queensland region of Australia’s National Electricity Market reflected the still, hot conditions that characterised critical event maximum demand days. Widespread take-up rates of rooftop solar PV has shifted maximum (grid-supplied) demand to the late-afternoon when wind speeds are rising, which also provides thermal cooling to transmission lines. Optimisation modelling suggests a shift from static to dynamic line ratings for a reference 275kV radial REZ in Queensland can increase wind hosting capacity from ~1700MW to more than 2800MW with limited change in the asset base. Dynamically adjusting Frequency Control Ancillary Services further increases VRE hosting capacity. |
| Keywords: | Renewable Energy Zones, Dynamic Line ratings, Frequency Control Ancillary Services, Variable Renewable Energy |
| JEL: | D52 D53 G12 L94 Q40 |
| Date: | 2023–12–29 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cam:camdae:2362&r=reg |
| By: | Niedrig, Nicolas (Technische Universität Berlin and BBH Consulting AG, Berlin, Germany); Giehl, Johannes (Department of Economics, Copenhagen Business School); Jahnke, Philipp (BBH Consulting AG, Berlin, Germany); Müller-Kirchenbauer, Joachim (Technische Universität Berlin) |
| Abstract: | Renewable hydrogen is a crucial element of the energy transition towards climate neutrality. A key aspect of the development of a hydrogen economy is a suitable market design. Public and science discuss aspects like generation, consumption sectors, and infrastructure in detail. However, the discussion of the design options for the hydrogen market is insufficient. The current discussion does not cover different possibilities of the final market states. Thus, this paper focuses on options for the future hydrogen market design. <p> The paper presents a two-step approach to identify market designs. First, a literature review and morphological analysis using the electricity and gas market as references provide the basic elements and values of the options. Second, three different infrastructure scenarios for Germany provide the basis for expert interviews to derive suitable market designs. <p> The analysis results in seven elements that are crucial for the future hydrogen market design. The market design should cover the elements marketplace, trading period, price formation, cost components, price orientation, prequalifications, and geographical coverage. The interviews show that over-the-counter trading and, with increasing regional coverage and more participants, stock exchange trading will be part of the market. The implementation of the stock market requires sufficient market liquidity of the seller’s market dominated by potential generation costs. Further aspects of an exchange in combination with prequalifications would be higher transparency and access to information. These aspects could positively influence the development of the hydrogen economy. |
| Keywords: | Renewable hydrogen; Market design; Hydrogen economy; Energy policy; Power-to-gas |
| JEL: | K20 L10 L50 N54 N74 O24 O25 Q21 Q27 Q41 Q42 |
| Date: | 2024–01–23 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hhs:cbsnow:2024_004&r=reg |
| By: | Matteo Aquilina; Giulio Cornelli; Marina Sanchez del Villar |
| Abstract: | Can regulation ease problems of asymmetric information for young and innovative firms? The new and largely unregulated cryptocurrency ecosystem offers a unique setting to test this hypothesis. We construct a comprehensive measure of regulatory stringency at the state-month level for the United States and find that more stringent regulation is conducive to more private capital, but only in states with a more developed financial sector. Looking at granular deal-level data we trace the increase in access to capital triggered by a more stringent regulatory environment to a reduction in information asymmetries. Consistently with a reduction in information asymmetry, we find that younger firms with less tangible assets benefit more, and foreign investors, investors that are not specialised in the crypto sector and those with fewer investment professionals invest more capital. |
| Keywords: | corporate finance, venture capital, asymmetric information, cryptocurrency |
| JEL: | D82 G24 G28 O1 |
| Date: | 2024–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:bis:biswps:1162&r=reg |
| By: | David Lowing (Laboratoire de Génie Industriel, CentraleSupélec, Université Paris-Saclay, France); Léa Munich (Université de Franche-Comté, CRESE, UR3190, F-25000 Besançon, France and Université de Lorraine, BETA, F-54000 Nancy, France); Kevin Techer (UJM Saint-Etienne, GATE, UMR3824, F-42000 Saint-Etienne, France) |
| Abstract: | Accurate cost allocation is a challenge for both public service operators and regulatory bodies, given the dual objectives of ensuring essential public service provision and maintaining fair com- petition. Operators have the obligation to provide essential public services for all individuals, which may incur additional costs. To compensate this, the operators receive state aids, which are determined by an assessment of the net cost associated with these obligations. However, these aids introduce the risk of distorting competition, as operators may employ them to subsidize competitive activities. To avoid this risk, a precise cost allocation method that adequately assess the net cost of these obligations becomes necessary. Such a method must satisfy specific prop- erties that effectively prevent cross-subsidization. In this paper, we propose a method grounded in cooperative game theory that offers a solution for allocating common costs between activities and obligations in public service provision. We adopt a normative approach by introducing a set of desirable axioms that prevent cross-subsidization. We provide two characterizations of our proposed solution on the basis of these axioms. Furthermore, we present an illustration of our method to the allocation of common costs for a public service operator. |
| Keywords: | Cooperative game theory; Cost allocation; Public service; Cross-subsidization |
| JEL: | C71 L51 |
| Date: | 2024–01 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:crb:wpaper:2024-05&r=reg |
| By: | Lucidi, Stefano; Sörries, Bernd; Eslamimoshkenani, Mehran |
| Abstract: | Vergleichstools für Telekommunikations- und Energieprodukte sind für Verbraucher und Unternehmen unerlässlich, um fundierte Entscheidungen über ihre Telekommunikationsund Energiedienstleistungen treffen zu können. Deshalb schreiben die europäischen Richtlinien für Telekommunikation und Energie vor, dass Verbraucher Zugang zu mindestens einem unabhängigen Vergleichsinstrument haben müssen. Diese können von öffentlichen Stellen (z. B. Behörden) oder von privaten Anbietern betrieben werden. Für private Anbieter von Vergleichsinstrumenten sieht der sektorspezifische Rechtsrahmen für Telekommunikation und Energie die Möglichkeit einer Zertifizierung vor. Ziel der Studie ist es, Erfahrungen mit der Implementierung von Vergleichsinstrumenten im Telekommunikations- und Energiesektor in verschiedenen Ländern in Europa zu sammeln, um daraus Erkenntnisse für Deutschland abzuleiten. Der Schwerpunkt der Untersuchung liegt dabei auf der Motivation der Länder und Sektoren sich für ein behördliches oder zertifiziertes Vergleichsmarktinstrument zu entscheiden. |
| Abstract: | Comparison tools for telecoms and energy products are essential for consumers and businesses to make informed choices about their telecoms and energy services. That is why the European Telecoms and Energy Directives require consumers to have access to at least one independent comparison tool. These can be run by public bodies (e.g. public authorities) or private providers. For private providers of comparison tools, the sector-specific regulatory frameworks for telecoms and energy provide for the possibility of certification. The aim of the study is to gather experience with the implementation of comparison tools in the telecommunications and energy sectors in various European countries in order to derive lessons for Germany. The focus of the study is on the motivation of countries and sectors to opt for a public or certified comparison tool. |
| Keywords: | Verbraucherschutz, Verbraucherinformation, Vergleich, Telekommunikationsmarkt, Energiemarkt, Deutschland |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280931&r=reg |
| By: | Niederprüm, Antonia; Junk, Petra |
| Abstract: | Der Briefmarkt in Deutschland ist, wie in den meisten Ländern, durch einen strukturellen Rückgang der Briefmengen geprägt. Zwischen 2010 und 2022 sind die Mengen um mehr als ein Viertel zurückgegangen, im Durchschnitt um 2, 6% pro Jahr. Die Wettbewerber konnten trotz des strukturellen Nachfragerückgangs sowohl bei Sendungen als auch bei Umsätzen ihren Marktanteil von 14-15% nach Menge und Umsatz halten. Die aggregierten Briefmarktdaten vermitteln nur ein oberflächliches Bild über die tatsächlichen Entwicklungen im deutschen Briefmarkt und die Vielfalt der im Markt aktiven Zustelldienstleister. In diesem Diskussionsbeitrag wird der Zustellwettbewerb im deutschen Briefmarkt aus dem Blickwinkel der Preis- und Qualitätsstrategien sowohl der Wettbewerber als auch der Deutschen Post untersucht. Es wird erörtert, wie sich der Zustellwettbewerb zusammensetzt, vor welchen Herausforderungen die Wettbewerber stehen und welche Preis- und Qualitätsstrategie die marktbeherrschende Deutsche Post verfolgt hat und in Zukunft verfolgen könnte. Basierend auf diesen Analysen und in Ergänzung mit relevanten geplanten Änderungen des Regulierungsrahmens wird ein Ausblick über die Zukunft des Zustellwettbewerbs in Deutschland gegeben. |
| Abstract: | As in many other countries, the German letter market has experienced a structural decline in letter volumes. Between 2010 and 2022, volumes decreased by over a quarter, averaging a 2.6% annual decline. Despite the decrease in demand, competitors have managed to maintain their market share of 14-15% in terms of both mailings and revenue. The letter market data only provides a superficial overview of the developments in the German letter market and the diversity of service providers. This discussion paper analyses the end-to-end competition in the German letter market from the perspective of price and quality strategies of competitors and the incumbent Deutsche Post. We discuss the composition of delivery competition, the challenges faced by competitors, and the price and quality strategy pursued by the market-dominant Deutsche Post, as well as potential future strategies. The analysis is used to provide an outlook on the future of end-to-end competition in Germany, also considering relevant planned changes to the regulatory framework. |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280953&r=reg |
| By: | Sörries, Bernd; Wissner, Matthias |
| Abstract: | Die Umgestaltung der Stromnetze im Zuge der Energiewende erfordert den Ausbau lokaler und regionaler Netze sowie die Digitalisierung von Prozessen, basierend auf Daten, um erneuerbare Energien zu integrieren und den Anschluss von Verbrauchern wie Elektrofahrzeugen und Wärmepumpen zu ermöglichen. Auf europäischer und nationaler Ebene gewinnt das Thema Daten und daraus resultierende Geschäftsmodelle im Zusammenhang mit der Digitalisierung aller Wirtschaftsbereiche zunehmend an Bedeutung, was durch rechtliche Rahmenbedingungen wie den Data Act der EU und eine nationale Datenstrategie vorangetrieben wird. Die Datenökonomie ist dabei als umfassende wirtschaftliche Aktivität zu verstehen, die auf der Nutzung von Daten basiert, wobei die Entwicklung eines Ökosystems von Technologien, Plattformen und Marktakteuren im Fokus steht, während Daten als eigenständiges Produkt dienen und Mehrwerte generieren sollen. Die zunehmende Digitalisierung und Verfügbarkeit von Daten weltweit wird als Grundlage für die Anpassung von Prozessen und die Entwicklung von Dienstleistungen und Produkten betrachtet. Der Erfolg datengetriebener Geschäftsmodelle erfordert dabei das reibungslose Funktionieren und Zusammenspiel jeder einzelnen Komponente in der Wertschöpfungskette, wobei die Herausforderungen von der Datenerfassung bis zur Wahrung des Datenschutzes reichen. |
| Abstract: | The redesign of electricity networks as part of the energy transition requires the expansion of local and regional networks as well as the digitalization of processes based on data in order to integrate renewable energies and enable the connection of consumers such as electric vehicles and heat pumps. At the European and national level, the topic of data and the resulting business models are becoming increasingly important in connection with the digitalization of all economic sectors, which is being driven forward by legal framework conditions such as the EU Data Act and a national data strategy. The data economy is to be understood as a comprehensive economic activity that is based on the use of data, with the focus on the development of an ecosystem of technologies, platforms, and market players, while data should serve as an independent product and generate added value. The increasing digitalization and availability of data worldwide are seen as the basis for adapting processes and developing services and products. The success of data-driven business models requires the smooth functioning and interaction of every single component in the value chain, with challenges range from data collection to maintaining data protection. |
| Keywords: | Stromnetz, Intelligentes Stromnetz, Digitale Dienste, Digitale Plattform, Betriebliche Wertschöpfung, Branche, Deutschland |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280933&r=reg |
| By: | Strube Martins, Sonia; Braun, Menessa Ricarda; Sabeva, Desislava; Wernick, Christian; Tenbrock, Sebastian |
| Abstract: | Die wirtschaftliche Replizierbarkeit von Endkundenprodukten marktbeherrschender Unternehmen ist eine der Voraussetzungen für eine flexiblere Entgeltregulierung von Breitbandvorleistungen. Diese wird anhand des Economic Replicability Test (ERT) überprüft. Im Rahmen des ERT prüft die nationale Regulierungsbehörde, ob die Marge zwischen dem Endkundenpreis des SMP-Netzbetreibers und dem Preis des relevanten regulierten Vorleistungsprodukts die zusätzlichen nachgelagerten Kosten inklusive eines angemessenen Prozentsatzes der Gemeinkosten deckt, die einem Vorleistungsnachfrager entstehen. Damit dieser mit dem marktbeherrschenden Unternehmen konkurrieren kann, darf diese Marge nicht negativ sein. Vor dem Hintergrund des im Februar 2023 von der Europäischen Kommission verabschiedeten Entwurfs der Gigabit Connectivity Empfehlung, welche die Empfehlung der Kommission vom 20. September 2010 über den regulierten Zugang zu Zugangsnetzen der nächsten Generation (NGA Empfehlung) und die Empfehlung der Kommission vom 11. September 2013 über einheitliche Nichtdiskriminierungsverpflichtungen und Kostenrechnungsmethoden zur Förderung des Wettbewerbs und zur Verbesserung des Umfelds für Breitbandinvestitionen (NDCM Empfehlung) ablösen soll, stellt sich die Frage, wie sich die Anwendung des ERT in der Praxis entwickelt hat und welche Implikationen die neue Empfehlung für die Anwendung des ERT hat. In der vorliegenden Studie wird ein internationaler Benchmark über die Anwendung des ERT in Belgien, Irland, Italien, Luxemburg, Norwegen, Österreich, Slowenien und Spanien durchgeführt. |
| Abstract: | The economic replicability of downstream products is one of the prerequisites for a more flexible approach to price regulation of wholesale broadband access. Economic replicability of a product is examined using the Economic Replicability Test (ERT). As part of the ERT, the national regulatory authority examines whether the margin between the SMP network operator's retail price and the price of the relevant regulated wholesale product covers the additional downstream costs and a reasonable percentage of the common costs. In order for the wholesale access seeker to be able to compete with the SMP operator, this margin must not be negative. The draft Gigabit Connectivity Recommendation adopted by the European Commission in February 2023, which replaces the Commission Recommendation of 20 September 2010 on regulated access to next generation access networks (NGA Recommendation) and the Commission Recommendation of 11 September 2013 on uniform non-discrimination obligations and costing methodologies to promote competition and improve the environment for broadband investments (NDCM Recommendation). Against this background the question arises as to how the application of the ERT has developed in practice and what implications the new recommendation has for the application of the ERT. In this study, an international benchmark for the application of ERT in Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Slovenia and Spain was conducted. |
| Keywords: | Breitbandkommunikation, Netzregulierung, Vorleistungen, Anreizregulierung, EU-Staaten, Belgien, Irland, Italien, Luxemburg, Norwegen, Slowenien, Spanien, Österreich |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280947&r=reg |
| By: | Sörries, Bernd; Baischew, Dajan; Nett, Lorenz; Stronzik, Marcus |
| Abstract: | In dieser Studie nehmen wir neben den klassischen Zielen der Frequenzregulierung, wie z. B. der Schaffung wettbewerblicher Marktstrukturen, auch die Aspekte der Nachhaltigkeit und Resilienz in den Blick. So hat z. B. die Ausgestaltung von Versorgungsauflagen für Mobilfunknetzbetreiber im Kontext der Frequenzvergabe einen Einfluss auf die Nachhaltigkeit. Insbesondere kann es zwischen der Nachhaltigkeit und der Schaffung eines Infrastrukturwettbewerbs potenziell zu Zielkonflikten kommen. Im Rahmen einer modelltheoretischen Betrachtung auf Basis der den etablierten Mobilfunknetzbetreibern zugeteilten Frequenzen und von Mobilfunk-Nutzungsdaten wurde dieser Zielkonflikt exemplarisch für das Bundesland Hessen näher analysiert. Neben der stationären Nutzung (z. B. durch Haushalte) wurden auch mobile Nutzungsarten (z. B. durch den Verkehr) berücksichtigt. Hinsichtlich des Zieles der Nachhaltigkeit lag der Fokus auf der ökologischen Dimension. Als Indikator zur Abbildung der ökologischen Nachhaltigkeit wird die Auslastung der auf Basis des Modellansatzes identifizierten Auslastungen der Funknetze herangezogen. Der Modellansatz ist GISbasiert und ermöglicht daher eine detaillierte Untersuchung der Gegebenheiten in der Fläche. Unterschiedliche Szenarien beleuchten zudem den Zusammenhang zwischen den bestehenden symmetrischen Versorgungsauflagen für Mobilfunknetzbetreiber und einer asymmetrischen Verteilung der Marktanteile in der Fläche. |
| Abstract: | In this study, in addition to the traditional objectives of spectrum regulation, such as the creation of competitive market structures, we also look at the aspects of sustainability and resilience. For example, the design of coverage obligations for mobile network operators in the context of spectrum allocation may have an impact on sustainability. In particular, conflicts of interest can potentially arise between sustainability and the creation of infrastructure competition. As part of a model-based analysis, which uses information of the frequencies allocated to the established mobile network operators and mobile network usage data, this conflict of objectives was analyzed in more detail for the federal state of Hesse as an example. In addition to stationary use (e.g. by households), mobile types of use (e.g. by transport) were also taken into account. With regard to the goal of sustainability, the focus was on the ecological dimension. The utilization of the mobile network capacity identified on the basis of the approach is used as an indicator to map ecological sustainability. The modelling approach is GIS-based and therefore enables a detailed area-related analysis. Different scenarios also shed light on the relationship between the existing symmetrical coverage obligations for mobile network operators and an asymmetrical distribution of market shares in the area. |
| Keywords: | Mobilkommunikation, Funktechnik, Regulierung, Kapazitätsauslastung, Marktanteil, Nachhaltige Entwicklung, Deutschland, Hessen |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280943&r=reg |
| By: | Kulenkampff, Gabriele; Nett, Lorenz; Ockenfels, Martin; Plückebaum, Thomas |
| Abstract: | Das Telekommunikationsgesetz (2021) garantiert das Recht auf eine Grundversorgung (Sprachdienste und Breitbandzugang) mit Telekommunikationsdienstleistungen an einem festen Standort. Die derzeit geltenden Mindestanforderungen an einen Breitbandanschluss wurden von der Bundesnetzagentur im Juni 2022 erstmalig festgelegt. Die Vorgaben zur Erbringung der Grundversorgung sind grundsätzlich technologieneutral. Verschiedene Anschlussarten wie FTTC, FTTB/H und in bestimmten Fällen auch 5G sowie bestimmte Arten Satellitenanschlüsse können diese Grundversorgung technisch erbringen. Soweit ein Unternehmen zur Erbringung der Grundversorgung in einem bestimmten Gebiet oder für bestimmte Liegenschaften verpflichtet ist, hat es Anspruch auf eine jährliche Abgeltung der Nettokosten, die in der Kostenrechnung des Unternehmens für das jeweilige Jahr zu dokumentieren sind. Abgegolten werden jedoch nur jene Kosten, die für den Universaldienstbetreiber unzumutbar sind. Das Telekommunikationsgesetz und die Richtlinie zum europäischen Kodex für elektronische Kommunikation enthalten Vorgaben zur Ermittlung der unzumutbaren Nettokosten. Ausgleichszahlungen sollen aus einem Fonds erfolgen, in den die auf dem relevanten Markt tätigen Unternehmen, aber auch Unternehmen, die in Deutschland nummernunabhängige interpersonelle Telekommunikationsdienste erbringen, einzahlen. Bis zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt wurde nach unserer Kenntnis in Deutschland kein Netzbetreiber zur Erbringung einer Grundversorgung verpflichtet und entsprechend keine Berechnungen von Nettokosten vorgenommen. |
| Abstract: | The Telecommunications Act (2021) guarantees the right to a basic supply of telecommunications services at a fixed location. The currently applicable minimum requirements for a broadband connection have been set for the first time in June 2022 by the Federal Network Agency. The specifications for the provision of the universal service are basically technology-neutral. Various types of connection such as FTTC, FTTB/H and in certain cases also 5G as well as certain types of satellite connections can provide this universal service technically. If a company is obliged to provide the universal service in a certain area or for certain properties, it is entitled to annual compensation for the net costs, which must be documented in the company's cost accounting for the respective year. However, only those costs which are unreasonable / unfair for the universal service operator are compensated. The telecommunication Act and the European Electronic Communications Code contain specifications for determining the unreasonable net costs. The compensation payments shall be funded by the companies active in the relevant market, including companies which provide number-independent interpersonal telecommunications services in Germany. |
| Keywords: | Telekommunikation, Universaldienst, Kosten, Nachrichtentechnik, Deutschland |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280952&r=reg |
| By: | Knips, Julian; Gries, Christin-Isabel; Wernick, Christian; Tenbrock, Sebastian |
| Abstract: | Die Nachfrage nach Glasfaseranschlüssen hat zwei Dimensionen: Zum einen setzt das Geschäftsmodell FTTB/H-Ausbau voraus, dass hinreichende Take-Up-Raten erzielt werden, damit sich die Investitionen amortisieren können. Andernfalls droht, dass sich ausbauende Unternehmen aus dem Markt zurückziehen müssen. Daneben besteht aber auch ein gesamtwirtschaftliches Interesse an einer hinreichenden Durchdringung und Nutzung besonders leistungsfähiger FTTB/H-Anschlüsse. Diese ist Voraussetzung dafür, dass die mit diesen Netzinfrastrukturen verbundenen Potentiale der Digitalisierung und digitalen Vernetzung auch tatsächlich realisiert werden können. Der vorliegende Diskussionsbeitrag stellt die Einflussfaktoren auf die Nachfrage nach FTTB/H-Anschlüssen und deren Ausprägung in Deutschland dar. Im ersten Teil wird die Nachfrage nach Glasfaseranschlüssen im internationalen Vergleich und deren Einflussfaktoren auf Basis statistischer Indikatoren dargestellt. Die Analyse zeigt, dass der (relativ geringe) Take-Up sich in Deutschland auf ähnlichem Niveau wie in anderen Ländern bewegt, in denen die Ausbaudynamik bei FTTB/H erst in den letzten Jahren an Fahrt aufgenommen wird. Auffällig ist, dass in Ländern mit hoher Marktdurchdringung von Glasfaseranschlüssen häufig eine deutlich geringere Preisspreizung zwischen Produkten mit niedrigen und sehr hohen Bandbreiten, sowohl auf Vorleistungs- als auch auf Endkundenebene, zu beobachten ist. Bei der detaillierten Analyse der Situation in Deutschland ist erkennbar, dass insbesondere die aktuell meist laufende Erstvermarktung von FTTB/H herausfordernd ist. Zum einen ist diese sehr personalintensiv (und damit teuer), zum anderen wird FTTB/H inzwischen auch immer mehr in Gebieten ausgebaut, in denen VDSL Vectoring und DOCSIS 3.1. als Konkurrenzinfrastrukturen zur Verfügung stehen. Bei der Vermarktung im Wettbewerb besteht die Herausforderung darin, dass viele Kunden im Festnetz wenig wechselaffin sind und zusätzlich über keine oder lediglich geringe zusätzliche Zahlungsbereitschaft für glasfaserbasiertes Internet verfügt. |
| Abstract: | The demand for fibre connections has two dimensions: Firstly, the FTTB/H rollout business model requires sufficient take-up rates so that the investments can be amortized. Otherwise, there is a risk that expanding companies will have to withdraw from the market. However, there is also a macroeconomic interest in the penetration and use of particularly high-performance FTTB/H connections. This is a prerequisite for actually realizing the potential of digitalization associated with these network infrastructures. This discussion paper presents the factors influencing the demand for FTTB/H connections and their characteristics in Germany. The first part presents the demand for fibre connections in an international comparison and its influencing factors on the basis of statistical indicators. The analysis shows that the (relatively low) take-up in Germany is at a similar level to that in other countries where the expansion of FTTB/H has only picked up speed in recent years. It is striking that in countries with a high market penetration of fibre connections, a significantly lower price spread can often be observed between products with low and very high bandwidths, both at wholesale and retail level. A detailed analysis of the situation in Germany shows that the current initial marketing and sale of FTTB/H connections is particularly challenging. On the one hand, this is very labour-intensive (and therefore expensive), and on the other, FTTB/H is now increasingly being rolled out in areas where VDSL vectoring and DOCSIS 3.1 are available as competing infrastructures. The challenge in this competitive environment is that many fixed broadband customers have little affinity for switching and also have little or no additional willingness to pay for fibre-based Internet. |
| Keywords: | Glasfaserkommunikation, Breitbandkommunikation, Nachfrage, Konsumentenverhalten, Telefonnetz, Deutschland |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280944&r=reg |
| By: | Zoz, Konrad; Stuck, Jana |
| Abstract: | Diese Studie untersucht, von welchen Einflussgrößen die Nachfrage nach Festnetzanschlüssen in Deutschland abhängt und welche Bestimmungsfaktoren sich für eine räumlich disaggregiert Modellierung eignen. Es sind verschiedene Themenkomplexe, die in diesem Kontext eine Rolle spielen. Dazu zählen die Bedürfnisse der Individuen, die Technologien zur Befriedigung der Bedürfnisse, der physische und individuelle Zugang zu den Technologien, das Vorliegen von Angeboten, der Wettbewerb, die Preise und die räumliche Komponente, der Ort von Angebot und Nachfrage. |
| Abstract: | This study examines the factors influencing the demand for fixed network access in Germany and which determinants are suitable for spatially disaggregated modelling. Several topics are of relevance, which cover the needs of individuals, the technologies to satisfy these needs, the physical and individual access to the technologies, the availability of offers, competition, prices and the spatial component, the location of supply and demand. |
| Keywords: | Breitbandkommunikation, Telefonnetz, Nachfrage, Konsumentenverhalten, Sozialökonomik, Region, Deutschland |
| Date: | 2023 |
| URL: | http://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:wikdps:280946&r=reg |