Nkom has announced the final rules for the allocation of 2.6 GHz and 3.6 GHz frequencies for mobile communications and 5G, ahead of the auction on 27 September. Bidders should register to take part by 31 August. The regulator has made changes following the consultation, concerning discounts for rural expansion and spectrum for private and local networks.
The regulator said that discounts of up to NOK 560 million will now be given to encourage rural wireless broadband expansion. The government has also decided to oblige 3.6 GHz permit holders to accommodate requirements by industry and other businesses for local 5G networks, by supplying them with suitable services, or by leasing them spectrum. In this regard, Nkom has announced a hearing concerning allocation of the 3.8 GHz to 4.2 GHz band suitable for local and private 5G networks.
Auction for 2.6 GHz and 3.6 GHz spectrum
September's auction concerns the 3400-3800 MHz band, which is the primary band for the introduction of 5G, and the 2500-2690 MHz spectrum, which is currently used for 4G. In total, there is 590 MHz to be distributed.
In the 2.6 GHz band, the regulator will assign 2x70 MHz FDD and 50 MHz of TDD frequencies. These are in the frequency ranges 2500-2570 / 2620-2690 MHz and 2570-2620 MHz. The TDD block will be allocated as one continuous block, and the FDD part divided into fourteen blocks of 2x5 MHz.
In the 3.6 GHz band, Nkom will allocate 400 MHz, divided into four blocks of 40 MHz and 24 blocks of 10 MHz.
The exact placement of the continuous bandwidth that each bidder wins in the auction is determined in a separate round of the auction. The auction will be conducted as an open, multi-round auction.
Hearing for proposals on 3.8-4.2 GHz band for local and private networks
After deciding not to set aside spectrum in the 3.6 GHz band for local or private 5G networks, Nkom is seeking comments by 20 August on its proposals for the allocation of frequencies in the 3.8-4.2 GHz band, which it will dedicate to such needs. It said permit holders will have to pay an annual sector fee of between NOK 100 and NOK 5,000 per year, depending on the type of use.
The final framework is likely to be published in the second half of 2021. It expects industrial and business organisations to be able to start applying for permits in the first half of 2022.
Nkom said the 3800-4200 MHz band can provide local broadband operators with resources to supply fixed wireless access. The watchdog is also considering facilitating local area networks in other frequency bands, including the 2.3 GHz and 26 GHz bands.
