The Swedish Post and Telecom Authority (PTS) has outlined its plans for radio spectrum auctions over the next few years. The next in line is an auction within the 2.3 GHz band, involving approximately 100 MHz.

The PTS said that it is endeavouring to make spectrum available to the market as soon as possible. The purpose of the Orientation Plan is to increase transparency and thus give market stakeholders better opportunities to plan their investments.

The Orientation Plan was first presented in September 2010 and PTS announced at the time that the ambition was to assign at least 500 MHz spectrum in the years ahead. This plan was updated in May 2011 and a further update is now being made.

PTS has assigned licences at three auctions since May: the 1800 MHz band (70 MHz), the 3.5 GHz band (56 MHz in the County of Jönköping) and the 10.5 GHz band (112 MHz). In addition, PTS has made available 56 MHz channels for radio links in the 15 GHz band.
Future orientation

• Assignment decided in 2012: 2.3 GHz
• Possible assignments in 2012/2013: 2010 MHz, 1.5 GHz, 1785-1805 MHz and 75 GHz
• Possible exemptions from licence obligation in 2012: 1878.1-1879.9 MHz (GSM) and 64-66 GHz
• Possible assignments during 2013-: 47-68 MHz, 450-470 MHz, parts of 2.8 GHz, parts of 3.8-4.2 GHz and 39.5-43.5 GHz

Principles relating to technology and service neutrality

The Orientation Plan also describes the principle used today in various frequency bands. However, other uses are possible in other frequency bands owing to amendments to the Electronic Communications Act, which entered into force on 1 July 2011. According to these amendments, frequency space shall be assigned according to the principles for technology and service neutrality.

The PTS emphasised that the plan represents an 'orientation' and that many factors may have an impact. The plan is updated annually and when required.