Norwegian communications regulator Nkom has announced the end of the auction of spectrum licences for the 2.6 GHz and 3.6 GHz bands, which began on 27 September. The spectrum was assigned ro Telenor, Telia, Ice and to fixed line ISP and TV service provider Altibox for prices exceeding NOK 3.89 billion. All the available spectrum was assigned, specifically 190 MHz in the 2.6 GHz band and 400 MHz in the 3.6 GHz band.
Altibox said it is expanding its operations to include 5G, which it will use initially to supply fixed wireless broadband in areas with no provision. It aims to start doing so in the first half of 2022. In the longer term, Altibox could use the frequencies for other 5G services. It said 5G was a natural extension of its infrastructure position. Altibox offers its services through a network of partners.
NKom said Altibox pays NOK 844.48 million altogether. The Lyse subsidiary receives a 50 MHz TDD lot in the 2.6 GHz for NOK 52.50 million. It also receives 100 MHz in the 3.5 GHz band at NOK 780.95 million for the bandwidth and NOK 11.04 million for the placement. After a discount, Altibox pays NOK 724.48 million.
Ice Communication Norway pays NOK 553.96 million for 80 MHz in the 3.6 GHz band. Ice said the frequencies will be highly valuable for the expansion of 5G and for securing the third nationwide mobile network in Norway for the coming years.
Telia Norway pays a total of NOK 1.07 billion. It receives 2 x 30 MHz in the 2.6 GHz band for NOK 289.40 million, as well as 100 MHz in the 3.6 GHz band for NOK 780.95 million. After the discount, Telia pays NOK 910.35 million.
Telenor Norge pays NOK 1.42 billion altogether. It receives 2 x 40 MHz in the 2.6 GHz band for NOK 415.89 million as well as 120 MHz in the 3.6 GHz band for NOK 1.01 billion. The total price after a discount is NOK 1.22 billion.
Winners can choose to pay the auction price immediately, in instalments over five years at no interest, or over 20 years at an interest rate of 6 percent. Ice said it has chosen the 20-year option for the frequencies, which are valid from 01 January 2022 until 31 December 2041
A discount of up to NOK 560 million was available to bidders providing broadband services with a download capacity of at least 100 Mbps in rural areas.
