Organisations can apply for a shared access licence to use spectrum in bands ranging from 1.8GHz to 26GHz. The regulator says these airwaves are ideal for setting up local wireless networks, which could benefit many different sectors across the UK – from farming to factories.
There are two types of shared licence available. These are:
- Low power licence – this allows anyone developing local wireless networks to use as many base stations as they like within a 50-metre radius, without further authorisation from Ofcom.
- Medium power licence – this is generally only available in rural areas and supports longer range networks.
This follows previous announcements from Ofcom on its new spectrum sharing framework, and how it is updating existing regulations to support that framework.
Ofcom has said it will co-ordinate access to the shared spectrum on a first come, first served basis for each location. Guidance on the application process is available online.
