Netherlands Opens Applicatons For 5G Spectrum Auction

The Dutch government has opened applications for the 5G spectrum auction. Interested bidders have until 06 April to apply and must provide a bank guarantee of EUR 35 million. The auction is expected to take place in the second half of June, in order to meet the EU deadline for releasing the 700 MHz band by end-June.

The expected outline of the auction was detailed in December in a consultation. Blocks in the 700, 1,400 and 2,100 MHz bands will be on offer in a multi-round internet auction. Each operator will face a cap of 40 percent of the spectrum available, as well as coverage requirements. The reserve price for all the spectrum is EUR 0.9 billion.

The consultation attracted 993 comments, of which the majority (974) were from individuals concerned about the health effects of 5G. Responses to the comments were provided by the ministry of economic affairs in the publication of the auction rules.

The ministry also updated the auction proposal following a debate in parliament. More information will be provided during the course of the auction as a result; bidders will be told how many blocks per band have received bids.

The Telecom Agency will conduct a webinar on 19 March on the auction and the software that will be used for bidding, in cooperation with the supplier DotEcon.

―Telecompaper