The Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority (JCRA) is inviting applications from telecoms operators interested in providing 5G services in Jersey.
Applicants will have until mid-November to submit their tenders, which will need to demonstrate their ability to provide Islanders with advanced services associated with the new technology. Once the tenders have been evaluated the Authority will make recommendations for awarding licenses for up to three applicants.
This process began with a public consultation to reassess local interest and demand in 5G, after which the Authority set-out the radio spectrum packages being offered to provide new services. The Authority also proposed the invitation to tender (ITT) process for use by any company wanting to apply for one of these packages and invited public comment on the proposed approach and its suitability.
JCRA CEO Tim Ringsdore said: “Releasing the ITT for 5G spectrum licenses marks a further important step in the process of ensuring islanders have access to the next generation of mobile and wireless services. As would be expected, we’ve considered the views and examined the concerns of a wide range of stakeholders to reach this point.
“I’m confident that the packages being made available and the application process for them are well-measured as a result. We expect to announce the outcome early in 2023, with licenses awarded as soon as reasonably possible afterwards.”
The remaining timeline for the licensing process is:
- Mid-Nov 2022 – Applicants must submit their tenders.
- End-2022 – The Authority will evaluate tenders and determine the outcome.
- Jan – Mar 2023 – The Authority will announce tender outcome and make recommendations for spectrum licenses to be issued by UK regulator Ofcom, which has responsibility for managing Jersey radio spectrum.
- Apr – Jun 2023 – Ofcom issue spectrum licenses and JCRA complete necessary local telecoms licensing arrangements.
Islanders should see 5G becoming available at some point after the completion of this licensing process, as successful applicants invest in and install the network upgrades needed to provide new advanced services.