Bermuda - Telecommunications/ElectricBermuda - Telecommunications
In April, 2013, the GOB enacted telecommunication reform legislation allowing telecom companies to apply for Integrated Communication Operating Licenses. The new law allows telecoms to offer bundled cell phone, long distance, cable television, and internet services and create operating efficiencies and better pricing for consumers. Overseas links are through four diverse bandwidth routes via fiber optics, ocean cables, and multiple satellite networks. Although there is considerable redundancy built into the system to negate the effect of faults, severe winds and storms can bring local communications down for periods ranging from hours to weeks.
Seven internet service companies provide dial-up and Broadband/DSL service to the island. As of March 1, 2016, residents pay roughly $265/mo per 25 Mbps. WIFI is usually available in larger hotels and at various hotspots throughout the island.
Landline and cell phone service is available throughout the island. Bermuda’s internal telephone system is one hundred percent digital, with fiber optic trunk lines. Long distance service is rapid and efficient, with direct dialing to the U.S. and most of the world. Unlimited long distance packages for calls to the U.S. are as low as $19.95/month. Many international telephone and fax brands are available for purchase on the island for home and business use. Almost all forms of cellular phone technology, equipment, and servicing are available in Bermuda. U.S. cell phones do work in Bermuda, although roaming charges can be expensive.
Like North America, Bermuda’s voltage system is 120 volts, 60 cycles. Some larger appliances use 220/240 volts, and some smaller ones and lights use 110 volts.
The Emergency Broadcast Station (EBS) - FM 100.1 - is a Government Disaster Preparedness Facility used by the Emergency Measures Organization (EMO). In the event of an emergency, the Department of Communication and Information (DCI) and the Police Media Relations (PMR), as directed by the EMO, will disseminate emergency information to the public via the EBS on an as needed basis. The station is located at COMOPS (Combined Operations), Police Operations Centre, Prospect Devonshire. The Department of Telecommunications is responsible for the maintenance of the station and carries out prerecorded weekly testing of the station.