The Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA) has taken a further step towards 5G being available in Jersey by setting out its planned approach to licensing the local radio spectrum needed to operate these advanced services.
The local process for licensing 5G spectrum was put on hold in 2020 because of uncertainty over the Covid 19 pandemic and emerging telecoms security requirements. The JCRA restarted earlier this year with a public consultation to reassess local interest and demand. With that consultation complete and reviewed, the regulator is now ready for the next step.
The JCRA’s intention is to complete the licensing award process, which includes making recommendations to UK regulator Ofcom (which has overall responsibility for local spectrum) by the middle of 2023.
The JCRA has issued an updated Statement of Intent containing spectrum packages that will be available to interested operators and is consulting on the proposed process of applying for them.
More information on 5G and the licensing process is available on the JCRA website.
Tim Ringsdore, Chief Executive of the JCRA says: ‘We’re grateful for responses received to our 5G consultation and the input of other local stakeholders. These have helped shape our planned approach to creating the spectrum packages for interested companies and the proposed application process.
“Our role as a local regulator is considering and enabling the frameworks within which licensed operators can launch reliable, innovative and value for money services for the benefit of consumers, businesses, and the Island. Reaching this milestone in the 5G spectrum licensing project is a very important step towards achieving this.’
