living on multiple island locations means the cost of construction and operations is very expensive and a significant constraint. 82. Since liberalization in 2008, investment in physical telecommunications infrastructure has increased dramatically, and many more Solomon Islanders have access to 2G and (in some areas) 3G mobile communications services. Fixed telecommunications network infrastructure remains limited, however, and very few homes or businesses have fixed broadband connectivity. 83. Currently, fixed broadband services have very low, and falling, penetration in Solomon Islands. The high prices of broadband services relative to per capita income are undoubtedly a very significant factor in low rates of fixed broadband penetration. Even if prices were significantly lower, however, the limited availability and unreliable quality of grid electricity supplied to homes and business premises is a significant constraint on expanding access to ICT, at least in relation to non-mobile technologies. The physical infrastructure supporting grid electricity in Solomon Islands must improve for fixed network ICT to achieve significant penetration. 84. International bandwidth currently is confined to satellite-based services, though satellite bandwidth pricing is facing increased competition and SISCC is working to progress a proposed Sydney-Solomon Islands submarine cable investment. 85. Solomon Islands confronts significant obstacles to ICT becoming ubiquitously available, accessible and affordable. Considered at the network level, constraints currently exist in relation to international connectivity, domestic backbone and switching, and customer access networks. Issues with grid electricity supply are likely to impact retail access, and shortages of skilled ICT technical staff possibly constrains activity at all levels. Page | 30 Solomon Islands National ICT Policy