SVT and SR request 465 million SEK for broadcast network costs

Sveriges Television (SVT) and Sveriges Radio (SR) are requesting an additional 465 million SEK in taxpayer funding to cover rising costs associated with the terrestrial broadcast network. The request, submitted in response to a government memorandum, seeks full compensation for the period 2026–2027.

According to the broadcasters, SVT requires 383 million SEK and SR requires 82 million SEK. These costs are driven by several factors: other television actors are leaving the terrestrial network, including pay-TV channels in 2025 and TV4's terrestrial broadcasts in early 2026. Additionally, price regulation for Teracom's distribution ended on January 1, 2026, following a decision by the Swedish Post and Telecom Authority.

SVT and SR warn that if they do not receive full compensation, funds intended for journalism, programming, and digital development will have to be diverted to cover infrastructure costs. The state has mandated that public service maintain a population coverage of 99.8 percent through 2033.