The Belgian telecoms regulator has set out an indicative timeframe for its 4G digital dividend auction, saying applications for spectrum in the 800MHz will be called for in August.
The Belgian Institute for Postal Services and Telecommunications (BIPT)…
The Belgian telecoms regulator has set out an indicative timeframe for its 4G digital dividend auction, saying applications for spectrum in the 800MHz will be called for in August.
The Belgian Institute for Postal Services and Telecommunications (BIPT) explained that the regulatory framework needs to be amended before the spectrum can be allocated for telecoms services.
Parliament has already approved changes to the electronic communications act (ECA), and publication in the Belgian Official Gazette – a formality that makes the changes binding – is expected shortly. BIPT would do “everything within its power to organise the 800MHz band auction as soon as possible after publication,” the regulator said in a statement, adding it remains “hopeful” that the auction will be completed this year.
According to the indicative timeframe, amendments to the ECA and a new Royal Decree will be published this month. A memo to candidates will be published in July and applications called for in the second half of August. The deadline for lodging applications will be in the second half of September, the auction itself will take place in November and notification of the results will be published in December.
The European Commission’s Radio Spectrum Policy Programme (RSPP) requires member states to open up the 800Mz band for electronic communication services.
Belgium’s mobile network operators are state-controlled Belgacom, France Telecom Orange’s Mobistar and KPN’s Base.
