Moves to plug homes and offices into the Internet via existing power outlets have been given a nudge forward by the Federal Communications Commission.

The agency said late Wednesday it plans to file a notice of inquiry in the Federal Register into the viability of using power lines to provide broadband and Internet services. While it is unclear whether broadband over power line (BPL) will be less expensive to set up than cable or digital subscriber lines (DSL), the inquiry offers the promise of a third way to deliver broadband into the home.

"Broadband over Power Line has the potential to provide consumers with a ubiquitous third broadband pipe to the home," Michael Powell, chairman of the FCC, said in a statement. "The development of multiple broadband capable platforms--be it power lines, Wi-Fi, satellite, laser or licensed wireless--will transform the competitive broadband landscape and reap dramatic windfalls for American consumers and the economy."

In an effort to extend broadband services further into rural areas, the FCC and others in Washington have been looking at alternatives to cable and DSL, including the opening up additional wireless spectrum. The number of broadband subscribers in rural parts and small cities often do not outweigh the cost to network and service providers of setting up the service in those areas.

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