Bell and Bell Aliant have sought approval to use Deferral Account funds to help pay for its HSPA rollout in some rural markets [zip, 215KB].
Specifically, they plan to offer wireless broadband services with up to 2 Mbps download, 800 Kbps upload, with a 2 GB usage cap, for $31.95 per month for retail and $22.00 wholesale. These rates are said to be comparable to existing DSL rates.
TELUS and MTS Allstream also filed plans with the CRTC, but neither of those companies have proposed new technology solutions. Details pertaining to Bell’s roll-out plan, including cost and deferral account drawdown estimates will be provided on February 26.
The Bell proposal to subsidize its HSPA rollout is certain to keep the controversy on deferral account alive.