BC Cons advocate for Starlink as 'superior' internet solution for remote communities

Conservative MLA Rosalyn Bird has made a strong case for SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet as the best solution for addressing the persistent connectivity challenges faced by northern, rural, and remote communities in British Columbia.

Her comments follow the completion of the Upper Viewmount fibre-optic project, a government-funded initiative to improve internet access in the region.

"Although I was very pleased to hear today that another Northern BC community has reached completion, I recognize many other northern, rural, and remote communities in British Columbia continue to face connectivity challenges," she said, emphasizing the growing need for reliable, high-speed internet across the province.

Bird stressed the critical role internet connectivity plays in driving economic growth, enhancing education and healthcare access, and improving overall community well-being. With work, school, and personal activities increasingly moving online, dependable high-speed internet is no longer a luxury but an essential service.

While it is a noble goal, expanding cellular and fibre-optic networks in remote areas presents unique challenges. Many northern regions lack the necessary power infrastructure to support cellular networks, making it difficult for providers to justify the high costs of installation and maintenance.

"For communities currently underserved by traditional infrastructure, the economic cost of inaction is clear: opportunities are missed, businesses remain disconnected, and rural regions fall further behind," Bird said. "It's time to consider an immediate, cost-effective, and scalable solution that delivers impactful results."

She pointed to the Upper Viewmount fibre-optic project as an example of the significant financial investment required for traditional infrastructure. The $1.08 million project connected just 153 households at a cost of approximately $7,058 per household, with users facing monthly bills of $50 to $90.

By comparison, Starlink offers a faster and more flexible alternative. The upfront cost for the satellite hardware is $759, and the current monthly subscription fee is $140. Homes can be connected within days, bypassing the lengthy timelines associated with government infrastructure projects.

"High-speed internet is critical to bridging the gap between urban and rural communities," Bird explained. "It enables small businesses to thrive, families to access telehealth services, and students to participate in online learning."