Statement: Enabling future use of the unpaired 2100 MHz (1899.9–1920 MHz) spectrum

Statement published 1 December 2023.

We want to secure optimal use of the unpaired 2100 MHz spectrum and to do so in an efficient and timely manner to enable citizens and consumers to benefit from new services.

Having considered responses to our proposal to revoke the unpaired 2100 MHz spectrum licences, this statement sets out our decision to start the statutory process for revoking these licences.

Subject to the outcome of the statutory process, we will consult in due course on the future allocation of the unpaired 2100 MHz spectrum and if necessary, on alternative spectrum for the ESN Gateway.

18 June 2024: Update on revoking licences in the unpaired 2100 MHz band

Ofcom has decided to revoke all licences in the unpaired 2100 MHz band, with five years’ notice. The revocations will take effect on 3 April 2029. 

Background

On 1 December 2023, we published a statement setting out our decision to begin the statutory process for revoking all existing licences in the unpaired 2100 MHz band (1899.9 - 1920 MHz). These licences are currently held by EE Limited, Hutchison 3G UK Ltd and Telefonica UK Ltd.

We explained that we made this decision because:

• revocation to enable reallocation of the spectrum to future users is appropriate and proportionate to meet our objective to secure optimal use of the spectrum, and
• this will in turn secure the greatest benefits to consumers and citizens by enabling the introduction of new services using the spectrum.

On 27 March 2024, after considering licensees’ representations, we completed the statutory process for revoking existing licences in the unpaired 2100 MHz band.

Since the three relevant licences cover paired frequencies within the 2100 MHz band, as well as unpaired frequencies, we have decided to implement our revocation decision by varying the licences, with effect from 3 April 2029. This means that EE, Hutchison 3G and Telefonica UK will no longer be authorised to use the unpaired 2100 MHz band from this date.