Updated: Increasing access to 5G in the UK through auctioning spectrum
On 4 November Ofcom published the final regulations, application form and guidance for those looking to take part in its forthcoming spectrum auction. Soon after this they announced the deadlines for companies wishing to take part in the upcoming spectrum auction.
In a significant step forwards, which will improve mobile services in the UK and give more people across the country access to 5G networks, Ofcom will release 200 MHz of spectrum in two frequency bands:
- 80 MHz of spectrum in the 700 MHz band
- 120 MHz of spectrum in the 3.6-3.8 GHz band
In May 2020, Ofcom outlined how the auction would work. The announcement formalises the regulations that are necessary for the auction to take place. There is supporting documents for prospective bidders, which can be accessed here. These include updated guidance on the auction process, an updated information memorandum and the application form all parties wishing to take part will need to submit to Ofcom.
Timings
The regulations came into force on 18 November 2020.
Any company wishing to take part in the auction must submit its application to Ofcom between 10:00 on 3 December and 16:00 on 4 December. Applicants must also provide an initial deposit, which Ofcom must receive by 23:59 on 4 December.
Bidding will start in January 2021.
Demo of auction software available on request
To aid prospective bidders in their preparations for the auction, a recorded demo of the electronic auction system is available on request to parties expecting to apply to participate in the auction. Any prospective bidders should email their request for a copy of the demo to [email protected].
Update on timing of the 700 MHz and 3.6-3.8 GHz spectrum auction
On 25 January 2021 Ofcom published an update on the timing for the start of the principal stage in the 700 MHz and 3.6-3.8 GHz spectrum auction.
Ofcom noted that throughout their planning for the auction they have been closely monitoring the coronavirus situation. Following a pause in the auction process, Ofcom are now planning for the principal stage of the auction (the start of bidding) to begin in March 2021.
Page updates
This page was first published on 4 November 2020.
It was update on 18 November 2020.
A futher update was added on 25 January 2021.
Josh Turpin
Josh Turpin
Josh joined techUK as a Programme Manager for Telecoms and Net Zero in August 2024.
In this role, working jointly across the techUK Telecoms and Climate Programmes, Josh is responsible for leading on telecoms infrastructure deployment and uptake and supporting innovation opportunities, as well as looking at how the tech sector can be further utilised in the UK’s decarbonisation efforts.
Prior to joining techUK, Josh’s background was in public affairs and communications, working for organisations across a diverse portfolio of sectors including defence, telecoms and infrastructure; aiding clients through stakeholder engagement, crisis communications, media outreach as well as secretariat duties.
Outside of work, Josh has a keen interest in music, painting and sailing.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- 020 7331 2038
- LinkedIn:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-turpin/
Tales Gaspar
Tales Gaspar
Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.
In the UK and Europe, he offered consultancy on intellectual property rights of cellular and IoT technologies and on the regulatory procedures at the ITU as a Global Fellow at the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI).
Tales has an LL.M in Law and Business by the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV) and an MSc in Regulation at the London School of Economics, with a specialization in Government and Law.
- Email:
- [email protected]
- Phone:
- +44 (0) 0207 331 2000
- Website:
- www.techUK.org
- LinkedIn:
- www.linkedin.com/in/talesngaspar
