The recent modifications to the BEAD Program have sparked reactions from experts like Blair Levin, who assess the shift of funds from fiber optics to satellite technology. While uncertainties and challenges remain, including the introduction of wireless ISPs and the complex challenge process, Levin suggests that states may retain more of their original plans than anticipated. Additionally, the failures of past RDOF bidders complicate the landscape further, with maps and bidding processes likely to see significant changes as a result.
Our initial reaction was that the new rules would shift funds from fiber to satellite, a negative for wired providers... We still think that but in talking to numerous stakeholders, that magnitude of the shift may be less than we initially thought.
He also suggested that states may be able to salvage more of their original BEAD plans than was originally thought likely.
A big change is the inclusion of wireless ISPs (WISPs) in the BEAD toolchest. WISPs are self-certifying to the 100 Mbps download/20 Mbps upload speeds required by providers.
In addition, satellite and fixed wireless may be able to serve many areas - but not all the addresses within those areas.
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