Singapore's Next Generation National Broadband Network

My post on Tuesday was in response to a Singapore government press release that used the phrases "structural separation" and "passive network." 

Subsequently I've been pointed to this website where the Singapore government has posted the qualification documents, mainly document IDA(PQ)-010V2, dated 11 December 2007.  It appears the actual RFP is only available to qualified bidders, but the qualification document has good information on the project structure.

Here is their view of structural separation:

Here is the supporting text:

3.3.2  There will be three distinct types of functional entities operating on the NGNBN.  At the lowest layer, the NetCo would be responsible for the design, build and operation of the NGNBN's passive infrastructure, which includes ducts and wirelines.  The NetCo would offer this passive infrastructure at a wholesale, non-discriminatory and cost-competitive basis (Layer 1 Open Access) to the OpCo(s).  The NetCo's passive infrastructure would be rolled out extensively throughout Singapore.  The NetCo infrastructure is expected to be capital-intensive with massive implementation effort.

To me that implies multiple OpCos can get access to dark fiber.  Hopefully private companies, who want their own dark fiber from one building to another, would also be able to lease dark fiber.  However, they don't make this clear so we'll have to wait and see. 

Only the NetCo portion is covered by the current RFP.  The Singapore government expects the NetCo piece to be built and operated by a private company or consortium, and they are prepared to provide up to S$750M (US$521M) in grants to make this happen.  Responses are due 25 March 2008 and will be evaluated based on:

• Attractiveness of business plan to industry
• Quality of network infrastructure
• Level of Government grant
• Financial proposition and strength of bidder

This is one to watch!