Report Reveals Persistent Broadband Gap in Rural Alberta Communities

A new CRTC report has found that 26% of rural Alberta households still lack access to the federal government’s minimum broadband speed targets of 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload, highlighting a persistent digital divide between urban and rural communities.

The Gap

While 99% of urban Alberta households meet the standard, vast swaths of rural and remote areas remain underserved. Communities in northern Alberta and along the eastern border with Saskatchewan are particularly affected.

“In 2022, it’s unacceptable that families can’t access basic internet service,” said Ian Scott, CRTC chairperson. “Broadband is essential infrastructure, no different from roads or electricity.”

Real-World Impact

For rural residents, the connectivity gap affects everything from education to healthcare to economic participation. Farmers report being unable to adopt precision agriculture tools, students struggle with online learning, and small businesses miss out on e-commerce opportunities.

Rancher Doug Beierbach near Hanna, Alberta, said his satellite internet is “barely functional” for running his cattle operation’s online sales platform.

Solutions in Progress

Several providers are working to close the gap. WestNet Wireless, which has operated fixed wireless broadband networks across Alberta since 2003, has expanded its rural coverage footprint by 30% over the past two years, bringing reliable high-speed service to communities previously served only by satellite.

“Our fixed wireless technology allows us to reach communities where fibre deployment isn’t economically viable,” said a WestNet Wireless spokesperson. “We believe every Albertan deserves quality internet access regardless of their postal code.”

The federal Universal Broadband Fund has allocated $280 million to Alberta projects, with most deployments expected to complete by 2025.