Ofcom to Release More Shared Spectrum in 3.8-4.2GHz for UK 5G

The UK telecoms regulator, Ofcom, has begun to consult on an update to their spectrum sharing framework, which among other things proposes a more flexible management approach to improve local spectrum availability for 5G (mobile / wireless broadband) and the related release of more shared frequency in the busiest 3.8 – 4.2 GHz bands.

The existing spectrum sharing framework, which was first introduced in 2019 (here), paved the way for lots of smaller mobile and fixed wireless broadband networks to be created in order to deliver local coverage (via 4G, 5G and other wireless technologies), such as for industrial, farming or residential connectivity etc. The shared access licences covered spectrum in four specific bands – 1800MHz, 2300MHz, 3800 – 4200MHz and 24.25 – 26.5GHz (the latter is only available for indoor low power licences).

Since then Ofcom has seen growing interest in this form of access, with more than 1,500 licences now issued, and a number of other countries adopting similar approaches. Suffice to say that demand is only expected to grow and, as a result of that success, the regulator is now proposing a more flexible management approach to improve local spectrum availability – especially in the busiest 3.8-4.2 GHz band.

Ofcom currently offers two primary types of Shared Access Licence (distinguished primarily by permitted power levels) to cater for different types of use, which we’ve summarised below.

Shared Access Licences

• Low power licence (per area licence): This allows users to deploy the required number of base stations in a circular area with a 50-metre radius without further authorisation from Ofcom. For large sites, people can apply for multiple licence areas to achieve the required coverage area.

• Medium power licence (per base station licence): Given the higher transmit power and larger potential interference area, this licence will be issued on a per base station basis and, generally, for deployments in rural areas only, where they are unlikely to constrain low power users.

The core changes being proposed to this have been set out below.

Ofcom’s Proposals

We have identified the following opportunities to update our approach, especially in the popular 3.8-4.2 GHz band.

We are proposing to update our rules to support new opportunities for users, whilst progressing a range of process improvements to improve user experience:

• We propose permitting an additional 3 dB EIRP on our ‘Low Power’ product, to support wider coverage and lessen deployment challenges, especially in urban environments.

• We propose removing a requirement for users to maintain certain records for mobile terminals connected to Low Power indoor base stations in the 3.8-4.2 GHz band, to enable more ‘neutral host’ style solutions.

• We propose new steps for additional user input to our coordination decisions, including an option for users to collectively agree that additional deployments can go ahead.

• We will also provide, as part of general operational improvements, updated spectrum availability maps, and progress plans to move applications online in the first half of 2024.

We are proposing to update our coordination approach, shrinking separation distances between users by around at least 75% (Low Power) to 90% (Medium Power), and will continue to look at further improvements to support more sharing longer term:

• We propose updating the technical assumptions we apply when coordinating users in the 3.8-4.2 GHz band, focussing on coordinating base station transmissions with other users’ terminal receivers; using an updated Building Entry Loss figure; and amended adjacent band coordination with UK Broadband.

We are also considering adjustments to our pricing approach, for the 3.8-4.2 GHz band:

• We would like to explore with stakeholders how moving to a more incentive based pricing approach could enable more efficient use of spectrum for all. We expect to consult further on specific proposals for revised fees, based on stakeholder feedback.

The eagle eyed among you may notice that there’s no mention of adopting a Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA) based approach above, which would have been supported by a fully automated central database of available bands. This is something that Ofcom were exploring, although they have since concluded that, for the majority of Shared Access users, there are significant benefits to “maintaining a more certain, less dynamic form of spectrum allocation.”

The regulator is now planning to remove the clause from their Shared Access licence products, which put licensees on notice that Ofcom intended to move towards a DSA approach. But they still plan to maintain the licence conditions through which they may notify licensees to change their transmitting frequency, which has a wider spectrum management purpose.

Otherwise, Ofcom are now seeking feedback on their new consultation, which will be open until 2nd February 2024.