Satellite internet service, Starlink, is facing opposition from Canada’s telecom giant, Bell Canada (Bell), as it seeks access to government subsidies to enhance internet connectivity in remote northern regions.
Bell Canada and its subsidiary, Northwestel, are lobbying the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to exclude Starlink from the subsidy program.
According to Bell, Starlink’s single pricing model across the country can operate in remote areas without financial assistance.
SpaceX, Starlink’s parent company, has opposed Bell’s claims, arguing that excluding Starlink from subsidies will leave northern regions with fewer options and higher internet service costs.
Intended for internet providers serving regions such as Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, the subsidies would significantly help to bridge the digital divide by establishing more reliable and affordable internet services, according to the CRTC. The Canadian regulator is yet to make a final decision on Starlink’s eligibility.
The argument comes amid Ontario’s recent cancellation of its CAD 100 million contract with Starlink in response to the United States’ tariffs on Canadian imports. Additionally, Quebec declared the nonrenewal of its subsidy program with Starlink, while Canada’s Transport Minister, Chrystia Freeland, announced the end of government subsidization of Tesla’s electric vehicles (EVs).
Read More:
CRTC Paves Way for Improved Internet Access in Far North
Bell Canada Cuts Fiber Expansion Plans Following CRTC’s New Ruling
TELUS and WestJet: Canada's First to Leverage Starlink for In-Flight Connectivity
