Points of orientation for the award of mobile spectrum

The Bundesnetzagentur has today published for consultation its points of orientation for the future award of mobile spectrum. The consultation is combined with an initial survey of the future demand for spectrum for mobile communications in light of the expiry of spectrum usage rights at 800 MHz, 1,800 MHz and 2.6 GHz at the end of 2025.

"We need to set the pace for the spread of digital technology. Broadband rollout needs to pick up speed and dead spots need to be eliminated. At present, the spectrum below 1 GHz is particularly key to delivering mobile broadband to rural communities. We are now taking the next step," said Jochen Homann, Bundesnetzagentur President.

Points of orientation for the provision of spectrum

The points of orientation describe the circumstances relevant to the future provision of the spectrum. They also present aspects needing clarification and considerations on the duration of the spectrum usage rights, the competitive independence of the fourth mobile network operator, competition-related and coverage obligations, and the promotion of cooperation.

The aim of the initial demand survey is to examine signs of possible spectrum scarcity, which is an important aspect for the future award proceedings.

The responses anticipated from the market participants will form a base upon which to determine the next steps for an objective, transparent and non-discriminatory process for the provision of the spectrum.

Background

The current spectrum usage rights in the bands at 800 MHz, 1,800 MHz and 2.6 GHz will be expiring at the end of 2025. The aim now is to set the best course for providing the spectrum for use from 2026.

In summer 2021 the Bundesnetzagentur launched a public consultation on its "Principles and scenarios for the provision of the 800 MHz, 1,800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum" with a view to creating legal and planning certainty for all the market players at an early stage about how the spectrum would be made available again. The responses received were taken into account when drawing up the points of orientation published today.

In summer 2020 the Bundesnetzagentur had opened up the dialogue when it published its "Spectrum compass".

The deadline for the submission of comments on the points of orientation and companies' forecast spectrum requirements is 21 March 2022.

Further information about mobile broadband is available (in German) at www.bundesnetzagentur.de/mobilebroadband.

Press release (pdf / 149 KB)