Consultation: Optimal use of 3.9GHz spectrum – Additional option

As part of our aim to improve spectrum access and efficiency, this document puts forward an additional option to change the 3.9 GHz licence by modifying its permitted frequencies, further to a consultation earlier in the year.

The 3.9 GHz licence is held by UK Broadband Limited, owned by Hutchison 3G Limited (H3G).In May 2024, in response to a request from H3G, we consulted on changes to the 3.9 GHz licence that would enable H3G to use 5G technology for its Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) broadband service. We also consulted on changes to improve the sharing of spectrum between H3G’s FWA use and other spectrum users under our Shared Access framework. 

Alongside the changes previously outlined in our May 2024 consultation, we are seeking views on an additional option to vary the terms of the 3.9 GHz licence by changing the permitted frequencies from 3925-4009 MHz to 3800-3884 MHz.  

We are separately publishing supporting technical analysis about the effect of changing the out-of-block (OOB) emissions mask on Shared Access users. This analysis shows that interference is dominated by the selectivity performance of the Shared Access receiver rather than the OOB emissions mask, taking into account the proposed changes.

Responding to this consultation

Please submit responses using the response form no later than 5pm on 25^th February 2025