ARKEP begins consultation on 3400MHz-3800MHz range

Sector watchdog the Regulatory Authority for Post and Electronic Communications (Autoriteti Rregullator i Komunikimeve Elektronike dhe Postare, ARKEP) has launched a public consultation regarding the distribution and use of spectrum in the 3400MHz-3800MHz band for mobile/fixed communications networks (MCFN). Under the proposals the range would be divided into 80 1×5MHz blocks of TDD spectrum, with 300MHz (3400MHz-3700MHz) to be allocated on a nationwide basis to be used for mobile or fixed wireless networks. The remaining 100MHz would be issued on a local basis for private networks and the regulator intends to handle each request on an individual basis. Authorisations for such private networks would be issued for four years with the right to renew after the expiry period. ARKEP notes that these allocations would also be limited in the border areas due to the necessity of coordinating frequency planning with neighbouring countries. ARKEP is accepting comments on its proposals until 1 July 2022.