Local Loop Unbundling

Drafting and Reviewing Reference Unbundling Offers

In the European Union and an increasing number of other jurisdictions, fixed network operators considered as exercising Significant Market Power (SMP) are legally required to develop Local Loop Unbundling products to facilitate access to their local access networks by other operators. These LLU products, along with their associated tariffs, must be described in a Reference Unbundling Offer (RUO), approved by the regulatory authority and published by the SMP operator.

Depending upon regulatory requirements and the approach of the SMP operator, the RUO document may address:

Development of LLU service definitions;
Development of technical descriptions and definitions for LLU services, including frequency plan recommendations and quality of service measures;
Defining associated services including collocation space and facilities and internal/external tie cables;
Costing and tariffs;
Development of processes, including Operational Support System (OSS) requirements;
Commercial issues.

It is essential that any RUO is crafted so as to meet the requirements of the regulatory authority whilst mitigating the potential negative effects of LLU to the SMP operator.

InterConnect Communications can assist SMP operators in the development of a Reference Unbundling Offer. Our experts will ensure you have a RUO that reflects your interests as well as meeting stated regulatory requirements, and will also help you prepare for future demands by ensuring a full transfer of knowledge to your staff on all related issues.

Examples of recent work in this area include:

Development of a RUO for an incumbent operator in an EU accession country based on the requirements published by the regulator;
Development and negotiation of the RUO presenting both bitstream and line sharing service for an incumbent operator in the Middle East.

We can also review existing RUO documents for compliance with regulatory requirements, suggest suitable amendments if and where required, and assist in the practical negotiation of agreements for unbundled access.

Key Service Areas:

Local Loop Unbundling

More Information?

For more information about InterConnect's LLU services, please contact Eric Tyson by phone on +44 (0) 1291 638400.