Germany aims to extend the usage of spectrum in the 800 MHz, 1,800 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands
The German Federal Network Agency, Bundesnetzagentur, has launched a consultation process with the aim of evaluating a potential five-year extension for the provision of spectrum in the 800 MHz, 1.8 GHz and 2.6 GHz bands, the agency said in a statement.
“Our primary objectives are improving coverage for all consumers and boosting competition. We are considering extending the current usage rights with the aim of providing sufficient planning and investment certainty in the short term,” said Klaus Müller, Bundesnetzagentur president. “We want to place better mobile coverage in rural areas at the center of our requirements. A specific coverage obligation for sparsely populated regions is intended to promote equal living conditions in urban and rural areas,” he added.
In the Bundesnetzagentur’s view, there are strong reasons against carrying out proceedings for an award as early as the end of 2025. Instead, the agency first envisages extending the usage rights that will expire at the end of 2025. Its initial proposal being put out for consultation is for an extension of five years. The spectrum would then be awarded together with spectrum for which usage rights will be expiring in 2033. The Bundesnetzagentur intends to take a decision on this in 2028.
There will be a specific coverage obligation for rural areas to accompany the extension of usage rights. Each mobile network operator would be required to provide coverage with at least 100 Mbps for at least 98% of households in sparsely populated areas in each federal state by 1 January 2029, the agency said.
The Bundesnetzagentur is also considering a coverage obligation for transport routes. Each mobile operator would be required to provide coverage with a transmission rate of at least 100 Mbps for all major roads by the end of 2028 and coverage with at least 50 Mbps for all minor roads and inland waterways.
The agency said that interested parties can submit comments on the framework for the proposed interim decision until 6 November 2023.
