Strategy of the Republic of Slovenia for the digital switchover

STRATEGY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SLOVENIA FOR THE SWITCHOVER FROM ANALOGUE TO DIGITALBROADCASTINGThe complete switchover investment is estimated to be between EUR 8.5 and10.5M, depending on the utilized technical solutions. The costs of promotionand call centre incurred in the state in 2009 and 2010 will amount to EUR0.5M annually, while subsidies for the purchase of decoders in 2010 will costthe state EUR 1M.4.6 Social-policy aspectsA decisive factor for the success of the national switchover procedure is aneffective strategy of consumer information regarding the availability of digitalprogrammes and the necessary equipment to receive such programmes.The switchover can also contribute to better fulfilment of special needs ofpeople with disabilities, and attention should be paid to inclusion ofaccessibility requirements in the user interface, e.g. EPG (electronicprogramme guide) and receiver.Example of EPG:The introduction of digital broadcasting in the transitional period will result inadditional costs for all parties involved. However, the improved economics ofdigital broadcasting and reception will reduce the costs in the long-term.Consequently, a coordinated and rapid transition is required.The switchover strategy to digital broadcasting envisages eight-fold coverage(eight equal networks) for the Republic of Slovenia, and three regions. It isbased on mutual coordination with neighbouring countries.The switchover strategy encourages the entry of new competitors in all areasand at different levels of the value chain, and contributes to increased36