How the DTT upgrade subsidies work in Galicia, Cantabria, and Castilla y León
To support the shift to new technology, the autonomous communities of Galicia, Cantabria, and Castilla y León have introduced financial aid for residents living in rural or shadow areas. The goal is to help households update their television equipment so it works with the new digital signals. Eligible recipients can receive up to 400 euros to renew their television set.
The move is essential to prevent anyone from being left behind during the digital transition. The digital signal change, as established by Royal Decree 391/2019 dated 21 June, frees bandwidth and supports the distribution of 4K content. It also aligns with a rise in European services related to fifth generation mobile networks, known as 5G.
The primary purpose of this financial aid is to lessen the financial burden of purchasing a new TV compatible with the updated DTT signals. The measure aims to promote a smooth technological transition while ensuring that all citizens can access information services, regardless of their income. Digital terrestrial television offers higher image and sound quality and a broader range of interactive channels and services.
Who can request this assistance?
Eligibility is set by the corresponding autonomous communities and varies slightly between them. Generally, beneficiaries must reside in Galicia, Cantabria, or Castilla y León, and they must replace their existing television equipment with devices compatible with the new DTT signals.
The initiative targets households with limited resources, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups, ensuring that everyone can participate in the technological transition. In Galicia, the aid can reach up to 400 euros. For first homes, it may cover 100 percent of the device cost, while for second homes, it can cover 50 percent or 200 euros. The Xunta de Galicia DOG issued on 15 February 2024 clarifies eligibility for residents who previously lived in areas at risk of digital exclusion before applying.
In Cantabria, aid can reach up to 500 euros and is intended for the purchase of DTT receivers. It targets homes and families in shadow areas that had to adjust their televisions after the power outage on 14 February.
In Castilla y León, the aid tops at 400 euros per household to guarantee access to digital television in HD for all rural residents.
The rollout of this assistance marks a meaningful step toward modernizing telecommunications in these regions. It makes it easier to obtain equipment that works with the updated DTT, improving the TV experience and promoting digital inclusion so that vulnerable groups are not left out of the ongoing digital advancements.