The regulator has tested a process that will come into force across the EU next year.
Background: The European Electronic Communications Code, adopted at the end of 2018 and due to come into force in December 2020, includes a new ‘peer review’ mechanism for EU countries’ plans for spectrum allocations. This will be led by BEREC, and will aim to foster consistency and coordination across the EU.
The French made a first test: Last week, the telecoms regulator Arcep brought together representatives of national authorities from 15 EU member states, to outline the planned terms and procedure for awarding spectrum in the 3.4–3.8GHz band in Metropolitan France, and to obtain their feedback. The procedure’s draft document was subject to public consultation between 15 July and 4 September 2019. In drafting the procedure, Arcep interacted with their European counterparts, in particular from Germany, Italy and the UK, to discuss lessons learned from past awards, and to compare the mechanisms used. By involving other regulators, Arcep has in practice run a test peer-review; however, once the Code will be in force, the process will be led by BEREC, to which regulators will have to submit their plans to get non-binding opinions. NRAs of other countries will also be notified of spectrum award plans.
Next steps: Having completed these consultations, Arcep will now finalise the terms and procedure, which will then be submitted to the Government. The regulator plans to hold the spectrum award in the autumn of 2019.
