The procedure is open – the auction for the entitlements to radio spectrum use in the 32 GHz frequency band begins

Published: 10 February 2023

See all documents of this auction
The Documentation of the auction announced for the 32 GHz frequency band is now available on the website of the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH). This time, applicants can only apply and submit offers for the auction electronically.

NMHH is auctioning the 32 GHz frequency band using a new technology, electronic bidding. Applicants can apply and submit their offers via a dedicated IT system in a three-hour time slot. This procedure guarantees the integrity of the bidding process.

The 32 GHz band is a so-called ‘greenfield’ frequency, currently not used.

Freeing up frequencies to expand 5G services

Entitlements to a total of 672 megahertz duplex frequency will be offered in the auction. These have been made available by the authority in a total of 24 units, in duplex 28 MHz blocks. The auction aims to ensure that the 32 GHz frequency band, which has not been used so far, can support the development of broadband data services. The NMHH thus offers an alternative solution for operators of existing links in the 26 GHz frequency band, which is currently mainly used as a backhaul network, with the aim of making the frequency band available for the provision of 5G services.

The reserved price was calculated by the authority’s experts using a benchmarking method, taking international precedents into account. For the purposes of the calculation, the evolution of the reserved prices per megahertz was analysed in an international comparison, taking into account, among other things, the population of the different countries and the time of the auction process. Unlike previous frequency auctions, there will be no bidding in the classic sense this time. If the number of bids received exceeds the number of blocks offered for sale, applicants with identical bids will have the opportunity to submit counter-offers and thereby raise their previously offered fee.

Prior to the start of the auction procedure, on 22 November 2022, the NMHH held a consultation on the draft Documentation of the auction procedure for professional stakeholders. In the light of the feedback received, the NMHH finalised the Documentation of the auction procedure, which can be downloaded from the NMHH website.