How much does it cost to keep the 2G and 3G networks running? Assume the cost of running the network is borne by the telecoms companies, whereas the smart meter replacements are a problem for the taxpayer.
The telecom companies just charge their customers for it, who are basically “taxpayers” too. You pay either way, so a better question is what action is expected to offer best benefit-cost ratio?
How much does it cost to keep the 2G and 3G networks running? Assume the cost of running the network is borne by the telecoms companies, whereas the smart meter replacements are a problem for the taxpayer.
The telecom companies just charge their customers for it, who are basically “taxpayers” too. You pay either way, so a better question is what action is expected to offer best benefit-cost ratio?
I’d assume that part of the problem is them tying up frequency that could be used for more-valuable things.
The taxpayer gets a bit back when the freed frequencies are auctioned off.