DSA supports EECC code
June 27, 2017
The Dynamic Spectrum Alliance (DSA) welcomes the European Commission’s proposed European Electronic Communications Code (EECC) and has suggested recommendations to ensure the Code’s spectrum provisions extend connectivity for Europe’s citizens now and in the future. The EECC is part of the European Commission’s plans for improved connectivity in Europe through Wi-Fi, 5G, and high-speed Gigabit broadband capable of supporting upcoming technologies and bandwidth-hungry applications. However, these applications require sufficient spectrum to function in the first instance.
The DSA strongly believes the promotion of spectrum sharing as a regulatory objective is rightly included in the EECC as new technologies and regulatory approaches allow for dynamic spectrum sharing to make more efficient use of spectrum while protecting incumbents. Article 45 and 46 provisions should therefore be safeguarded and embraced by the Council of Ministers and European Parliament to foster increased application of a variety of spectrum sharing approaches by national spectrum managers.
“Part of the DSA’s remit is to work to create innovative solutions that will increase the amount of available spectrum to the benefit of consumers and businesses alike,” said Kalpak Gude, President of the Dynamic Spectrum Alliance. “As part of this, the DSA supports a broad mix of spectrum allocation methodologies; exclusive licences, licence-exemption, and shared spectrum. To support the widest range of innovative opportunities, there must first be a broad mix of solutions in place.”
While the EECC lays the foundation for long-term connectivity in Europe, the DSA believes it is vital spectrum authorities are empowered to reallocate spectrum that is not being used to ensure more efficient spectrum use. The DSA therefore welcomes provisions which would enshrine a ‘use-it-or-share-it’ principle, by allowing the withdrawal of spectrum rights and allowing for alternative use of a band where a national or regional lack of demand is identified.