Value-added services, new satellite drive revenue growth for Eutelsat

Eutelsat reported that its revenues for the first quarter of 2012-2013 have increased by 6.5 percent. Value-added services grew by 43.7 percent, while video applications and capacity added in 2011 and 2012 increased by 9.1 percent. The European fixed satellite services (FSS) operator has earned 314.4 million euros ($406.3 million) so far.

According to Eutelsat, limited capacity in regions of highest demand caused multi-usage to drop by 5.8 percent. The Company responded by acquiring the GE-23 satellite operated by GE-Satellite. Renamed as Eutelsat 172A, the new satellite will expand Eutelsat's coverage of these high-demand areas.

According to Michel de Rosen, CEO of Eutelsat, the FSS operator is now focusing on the November 2012 launch of the Eutelsat 21B satellite, and the December launch of the Eutelsat 70B satellite. Both satellites will significantly increase capacity for markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, where Data Services and Multi-usage remain in high demand.

In the meantime, Eutelsat adjusted its revenue outlook after acquiring Eutelsat 172A. The FSS operator is aiming to generate top-line growth of between 5 and 6 percent for the current fiscal year. By the time June 2015 arrives, it plans to have achieved a three-year compound annual growth of between 6 and 7 percent.

Recommended additional reading:

• NBN announce contractors of satellite ground stations 

Eutelsat almost ready for HD satellite coverage of London Olympic Games

Eutelsat Communications is entering the last leg of its preparations to handle the huge demand for satellite communications that will be generated by the 2012 London Olympic Games.

The London Olympic Games is the biggest international multi-sport events in the world. It is expected to generate over 2,000 hours of satellite transmissions, which will be handled by a large number of satellite communications companies such as Eutelsat.

The European Broadcasting Union and its counterparts from the Middle East, Asia, and South America have booked capacity on four Eutelsat Ku-band satellites for the event. The satellites will transmit live high-definition (HD) coverage of official ceremonies, interviews, and breaking news regarding the Games' 300 events in 36 sports.

In addition, Eutelsat and its fellow satellite communications companies have taken efforts to assure the highest signal quality during the Games. Of particular note is their introduction of Carrier ID, a stamp on uplink signals that satellite communications operators can use to speed up the process of identifying transmissions to their satellites.

Two Eutelsat satellites will provide capacity for more than 70 EBU members. The rights-holding member countries of Europe's leading broadcasting association will be able to access 12 HD multilateral signals through the Eurovision network, which will leverage Eutelsat's speedy satellite services.

According to Jean-François Leprince-Ringuet, Commercial Director for Eutelsat, the London Olympic Games will usher in a new HD era for the Eurovision network.

"2012 is a stellar year for satellite delivery of sports and news events," Director Leprince-Ringuet said, "with Eutelsat coordinating a record volume of transmissions, peaking on June 17 to serve broadcasters and news agencies covering elections in France, Greece and Egypt as well as UEFA Euro 2012 games in the Ukraine."