On 6 May 2010, the European Commission (EC) adopted a Decision establishing harmonised technical rules for the use of frequencies in the 790-862 MHz band, seeking to direct Member States of the European Union (EU) on the uses of the so-called Digital Dividend in terms of 800 MHz frequencies, which will become available as analogue television broadcasting transitions to digital - a process which is due to be concluded by the end of 2012.
By advancing with these harmonised rules, the EC intends that Member States apply the same technical framework in the use of the 790-862 MHz band for electronic communication services other than current television broadcasting. As such, radio communications equipment, like handsets or base stations using the 800 MHz band, can be used efficiently for wireless broadband networks, such as 4th generation mobile technology (e.g. LTE or Wimax).
Telecoms industry experts, cited by the EC, estimate that mobile broadband coverage using the 800 MHz band will be around 70 percent cheaper than using the radio frequencies currently used by 3rd generation mobile technology (UMTS). Meanwhile, a study conducted for the Commission found that, compared to individual national plans, appropriate EU coordination would increase the potential economic impact of the digital dividend substantially (by between 17 and 44 billion euros depending on the scenario chosen).
Although this decision does not require EU Member States to make the 790-862 MHz band available for electronic communication services, the EC is considering such a proposal in the forthcoming Radio Spectrum Policy Programme, which will take account of a consultation on the subject that closed on 9 April and the results of the 22-23 March Spectrum Summit organised by the Commission and the European Parliament.
Consult:
- Commission Decision (2010/267/EU), of 06.05.2010 https://www.anacom.pt/render.jsp?contentId=1025272
Related information on ANACOM's website:
- EC launches consultation on future spectrum policy - closes 9 April https://www.anacom.pt/render.jsp?contentId=1016723
