Investing in Connectivity: Starlink is the Pragmatic Solution for Northern, Rural and Remote Communities in British Columbia

PRINCE GEORGE: Rosalyn Bird, Conservative MLA for Prince George – Valemount, says Starlink satellite internet service is the superior solution for northerners.

 

“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," Bird said in response to the completion of the Upper Viewmount (Smither) fibre-optic project.

Access to reliable, high-speed internet has become an essential element in progressing economic growth and providing access to education and health care, while improving community well-being. No longer a luxury, we now recognize its importance as our work, school and personal lives increasingly shift online.

One of the main hurdles in expanding cellular services is the availability of power, as cellular infrastructure requires electricity. Additionally, many remote areas and highways across B.C. lack power, making it difficult for cellular providers to justify the investment.

“Instead of relying on costly and slow-to-implement government infrastructure projects, we believe in harnessing private sector innovation to more expediently meet the needs of northern, rural and remote underserved communities," Bird said.

The cost to deploy fibre-optic infrastructure in rural BC is significant: the Upper Viewmount Project (Smithers) cost $1.08 million to connect 153 households - approximately $7,058 per household and a monthly cost of $50 to $90.

Starlink Internet Service, developed by SpaceX is emerging as an innovative solution for many BC households. Starlink can offer a practical alternative to costly infrastructure projects. Its upfront cost is $759 for hardware -dish and router- and its current monthly cost is $140 for high-speed internet. Starlink can connect homes within days, without the delays of planning, permitting, and construction.

“It’s time to consider an immediate, cost-effective and scalable solution that delivers impactful results," said Bird. “High-speed internet is critical to bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. It enables small businesses to thrive, families to access telehealth services, and students to participate in online learning.”

“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. It is time to move forward.”