Sweden Proposes Allocating 900Mhz Spectrum to 3G Operator

Sweden's telecoms regulator, the Swedish Post and Telecom Agency (PTS) has decided to distribute a proposed decision concerning the GSM900 band for consultation. The proposal involves the renewal of existing licences in the 900 MHz band, but also that the entire frequency space available in the 900 MHz band should be allocated, which would enable 3G operator, Hi3G to gain access to frequency space in the 900 MHz band. In addition, it would be possible for operators to progress to new technology and supply wireless broadband to a greater extent.

Since the spring of 2008, PTS has been actively pursuing how spectrum space in the 900 MHz band should be dealt with since the terms of licences expire on 31 December 2010. The platform for PTS's work is to safeguard consumer interests in the Swedish mobile telephony market by ensuring continued high coverage, promoting current GSM use, promoting efficient spectrum use while also promoting technological progress.

In November 2008, the operators TeliaSonera, Swefour, Tele2, Telenor and Hi3G submitted an application. The proposals contained in the application entail five operators being able to supply services in the 900 MHz band instead of four operators as is currently the case.

The proposed decision will be published on PTS's website next week.

Posted to the site on 5th February 2009