California to support BPL

The California PUC will propose to allow utilities to set up BPL companies and allow them free access to their networks.

Obviously, there are technology and interference issues around BPL, but the stronger the incentive from governments and the more attractive the broadband markt (low penetration in the US, falling gear prices, nifty new products from Motorola), the better BPL could compete with DSL and cable. The free access part is challenging however. Does that mean third party providers would have access? I suppose not, so this could indeed create a three player market (telco, MSO, utility).