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Outline of the programme

The Spectrum Framework Review proposes that decisions about whether spectrum is licensed or designated licence exempt (LE) should be based upon considerations of the relative economic value of the spectrum when used in these two different ways. It is relatively straightforward to assess the likely value of a licensed band but very little is known about the economic value of LE spectrum. So Ofcom has decided to commission a study to estimate this value. The study should develop a methodology and forecasts that can be readily adjusted by Ofcom in future should predictions change.

The essential deliverables from the study are clear:

To predict future demands to 2020 for each key LE band

To establish a current economic value of the key LE bands

To predict future economic value of the key bands and deliver a model which allows Ofcom to adjust this valuation as demand predictions change

To look at global trends in future demand for LE bands and assess the costs and benefits which different levels of harmonisation of LE spectrum might bring to the UK.

The focus of the study is on LE bands and their application rather than LE devices. Both LE and light touch regulated bands should be considered as LE.

There will be six step approach to this study:

• Step 1: assess global trends in use of LE spectrum
• Step 2: predict demand for key LE bands and applications to 2020 in the UK
• Step 3: quantify the current economic value of LE spectrum in the UK
• Step 4: predict the future economic value of the LE bands over the next 15 years
• Step 5: assess the costs and benefits which different levels of harmonisation of LE spectrum might bring to the UK in future.
• Step 6: report to and meet with Ofcom.

Timescales

The project has concluded and you can download the final report below.

• The economic value of licence exempt spectrum [pdf]
• The economic value of licence exempt spectrum - Annexes 1-5 [pdf]
• The economic value of licence exempt spectrum - Annexes 6+ [pdf]

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