Ofcom welcomes applications for new spectrum sharing licenses

Organisations can apply for a shared access licence to use spectrum in bands ranging from 1.8GHz to 26GHz. The regulator says these airwaves are ideal for setting up local wireless networks, which could benefit many different sectors across the UK – from farming to factories.

There are two types of shared licence available. These are:

This follows previous announcements from Ofcom on its new spectrum sharing framework, and how it is updating existing regulations to support that framework.

Ofcom has said it will co-ordinate access to the shared spectrum on a first come, first served basis for each location. Guidance on the application process is available online.