As the US explores the role of AI in spectrum management, Canada is considering mobile’s impact on the environment
FCC investigates non-federal spectrum usage
In early August 2023, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launched a technical inquiry designed to improve its understanding of non-federal spectrum usage (i.e. the use of spectrum by commercial providers), and to explore how it might take advantage of new data sources, methods and technologies. As frequencies become more congested, the FCC considers that technologies such as AI could allow it to draw insights from large and complex datasets, which in turn could help facilitate more efficient spectrum use, including through new spectrum sharing techniques and approaches to enable coexistence among users and services. The regulator is interested in how such tools could be utilised to promote both effective spectrum management and innovation.
Harnessing the potential of AI
The FCC’s inquiry will explore the benefits, feasibility and limitations of techniques to understand non-federal spectrum usage on a geography, frequency and time basis – with the regulator noting its preference for those that are accurate, cost-effective and scalable. The FCC is seeking input on examples of best practice, operational considerations and technical parameters, as well as band- and service-specific considerations. It also wants views on the practical, technical and legal issues relevant to any potential study of spectrum usage. Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel states that she is “more hopeful about AI than pessimistic”, considering it a way to facilitate the efficient use of a scarce resource and to increase network resilience. Depending on the outcome of the fact-gathering exercise, it may lead the regulator to consider a formal rulemaking.
Government outlines spectrum strategy
Innovation, Science & Economic Development Canada (ISED), a government body, too sees a potential role for AI in spectrum sharing, as well as in “responsible digitalisation” that could improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across economic sectors. On 11 August 2023, ISED published its Spectrum Outlook 2023 to 2027, outlining its overall approach to the management of Canada’s spectrum assets – including plans for the forthcoming 3800MHz auction scheduled for October. The strategy makes climate change a key theme for the next five years, with the agency aiming for environmentally sustainable wireless deployment and operation, and the use of wireless technologies to support the decarbonisation of vertical industries.
Environmental impacts to influence policy decisions?
ISED notes that stakeholders, including the Canadian Telecommunications Association, have highlighted the potential of wireless technologies such as 5G to support the decarbonisation of the Canadian economy. Currently, the mobile sector’s carbon footprint is relatively small, but it is expected to increase as the demand for wireless technologies and use cases grow. ISED will continue to closely monitor the progress operators are making to meet their climate goals and to address the issue of sustainability, as appropriate, when setting spectrum policies. Engaging a broader subset of private sector stakeholders in the consultation process, and “asking the right questions” about possible environmental impacts of spectrum decisions will therefore be key components of this and future editions of ISED’S Spectrum Outlook.
