Broadband over Power Lines (BPL) is already available in some markets today. Power lines reach deep into rural areas that cable companies have not ventured into and where DSL is not available so there is a lot of excitement about the potential for expanding broadband access. So far BPL has not gained as much traction as cable and DSL Internet and they are still ironing out some kinks, but this infusion of cash should help that situation. It would be very nice to have another way to get the high-speed hookup so I’m hoping it all works out.
Google’s reason for the interest is not totally clear. They say they want to “help promote better access to the Internet” and I think that is a true statement. I’m sure they would also like to have their fingers deep into this new broadband pie when it becomes more universally available so there is an additional financial incentive. I’m all for a company like Google giving the telcos and the cable companies some good competition!