Starlink Has Begun Charging Users a ‘Network Congestion’ Fee in High-Demand Satellite Internet Areas

As it moves forward with its goals of providing free worldwide emergency coverage—albeit with exceptions—and high-speed Wi-Fi on airplanes, Starlink has introduced changes to its residential satellite Internet service.

Unfortunately, for users looking to sign up, there’s no price drop in the rate or equipment this time, unlike previous offers. Now, the company will apply a new “congestion charge” when network capacity is insufficient to meet demand.

Only Until Network Capacity Improves

Due to high demand, Starlink has introduced a new clause in its terms of service (clause 2.11) that includes the possibility of applying a congestion charge or a one-time additional charge, depending on the service’s location and the contracted service plan.

When contracting this service, new users must pay the congestion charge once. It applies only to those who activate a new plan or change their existing one. However, the company may also charge customers if they change their address, according to Starlink’s support page:

In areas with network congestion, there is an additional one-time charge to purchase Starlink Residential services. This fee will only apply if you are purchasing or activating a new service plan. If you change your Service address or Service Plan at a later date, you may be charged the congestion fee.

Our intention is to no longer charge this fee to new customers as soon as network capacity improves. If you're not satisfied with Starlink and return it within the 30-day return window, the charge will be refunded.

Starlink intends to eliminate this surcharge for new customers as network capacity improves. In some high-demand areas of the U.S., the congestion charge is $100.

Image | Starlink