Finland Proposes New Law to Back EU Gigabit Regulation

Brief Summary
Finland is introducing a national law to align with the EU's 2030 goal of providing gigabit-speed internet to all households. The proposal replaces outdated co-construction rules, streamlines permitting via a digital platform, and includes rural safeguards. Key features like "silent approval" and shared infrastructure mandates aim to accelerate network deployment while balancing private and public needs.

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1. EU Regulation and Finland's Legislative Response

The European Union mandates that all households have access to gigabit-speed connections by 2030, emphasizing shared infrastructure, simplified permits, and centralized data services. To meet these targets, Finland submitted draft legislation on 21 August 2025, replacing its existing co-construction laws. The new law aims to cut costs for deploying high-capacity networks and harmonize with EU standards.

"The proposal introduces a new law that would replace Finland's existing co-construction legislation. It would complement the EU regulation focused on reducing costs linked to deploying gigabit-capable infrastructure."

Key EU requirements include shared infrastructure use (e.g., utility poles, ducts) and streamlined permitting, which Finland's law seeks to implement domestically.

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2. Centralized Permit Platform and "Silent Approval"

A digital permit platform will allow applicants to submit requests for permissions and installation rights online. This system reduces bureaucratic delays and ensures transparency.

"A key mechanism would be the introduction of a 'silent approval' process. If an authority does not process an application within four months, the permit would be considered granted by default."

This provision accelerates project timelines, critical for meeting the 2030 deadline. Minor repairs and maintenance are exempt from permits to avoid unnecessary red tape.

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3. Rural and Private Sector Considerations

The law prioritizes rural communities and small municipalities, particularly areas with fewer than 3,500 residents. These regions receive a 12-month transition period to meet data-sharing obligations via a central information point.

Tommi Veistämö, Senior Statistician at Statistics Finland, emphasized:

"The new national law would align with these EU requirements while making use of domestic flexibility. The law would consider the needs of rural communities and small municipalities."

Private commercial buildings in rural areas must now allow shared infrastructure, extending co-construction requirements beyond publicly funded projects.

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4. Exemptions and Flexibility

To avoid undue burdens:

• Detached houses, seasonal properties, and buildings where fiber installation is cost-prohibitive or impractical are exempt from in-building network rules.
• Nationally critical infrastructure (e.g., healthcare communications) is excluded from certain obligations to ensure service continuity.

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5. Oversight and Implementation Timeline

The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) will oversee compliance and resolve disputes. Parliament will begin deliberations with a preliminary debate, followed by committee reviews and final discussions.

The law is set to take effect in November 2025, fully implementing EU gigabit obligations nationwide.

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6. Legislative Process and Stakeholder Impact

By modernizing infrastructure rules, Finland aims to attract private investment while ensuring equitable access. The shared-use obligation for private buildings could lower deployment costs for telecom companies, fostering competition. Rural exemptions and transition periods address concerns about disproportionate burdens on small communities.

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Conclusion

Finland's new law marks a pivotal step toward bridging the digital divide and meeting EU connectivity goals. By blending streamlined processes, rural safeguards, and private sector incentives, the legislation balances efficiency with fairness. If approved, it could serve as a model for other member states navigating similar transitions. 🚀