Nätöppningsdirektiv

Nätöppningsdirektiv refers to a directive or regulation, typically within the European Union context, aimed at promoting competition and opening up network infrastructure markets. The term translates loosely to "network opening directive." These directives are designed to prevent incumbent operators from abusing their dominant market position by denying access to essential infrastructure like telecommunications networks, electricity grids, or gas pipelines.

The primary goal is to allow new market entrants to provide services without having to build their own costly infrastructure from scratch. Instead, they can lease or gain access to the existing networks of established providers under regulated and fair terms. This fosters competition, which in turn is expected to lead to lower prices, improved service quality, and greater innovation for consumers and businesses.

Nätöppningsdirektiv often include provisions for the separation of infrastructure from service provision within a company, or mandate transparent and non-discriminatory access rules. They are a key tool for liberalizing markets that have historically been natural monopolies. The specific details and scope of such directives can vary, but the underlying principle of facilitating access to essential infrastructure remains consistent.