BNetzA has awarded 88 permits for local broadband networks in the 3.7–3.8GHz band.
A scheme to support industrial networks: In November 2019, the German Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) started the application process to award spectrum in the 3.7–3.8GHz band for local 5G networks. These networks are expected to support industrial use cases (‘Industry 4.0’) or agriculture and forestry.
Most applications were successful: On 23 November 2020 BNetzA reported on the success of the scheme. The regulator received 93 applications, of which 88 were accepted. The list of companies operating these networks includes several industrial and automotive groups (e.g. Airbus, Audi, Mercedes-Benz) and universities, among others. Operators such as Telefonica and Verizon are also on the list.
A suitable fee structure for small businesses: The fees to use these frequencies vary case-by-case, according to a formula which takes account of the base amount (€1000), the bandwidth used (between 10MHz and 100MHz), the duration in years, and the area over which the spectrum is used. Industry has welcomed this approach, noting that it suits small and medium businesses.
