Consultation on 24 GHz and 38 GHz Licences

Summary#

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has published SPB-002-23 — Consultation on the Licence Renewal Process for the 24 GHz and 38 GHz Bands and Preliminary Consultation on Changes to Spectrum in 24.25-26.5 GHz. It asks for public comments on renewing certain radio spectrum licences in the 24.25–24.45 GHz, 25.05–25.25 GHz and 37.6–40.0 GHz bands, and on some possible changes across 24.25–26.5 GHz. The deadline for comments is December 19, 2023.

What it does#

• Announces the release of the consultation paper SPB-002-23 and invites written feedback.
• Proposes to renew eligible licences in the 24.25–24.45 GHz, 25.05–25.25 GHz and 37.6–40.0 GHz (the “38 GHz”) bands.
• Opens a preliminary discussion about possible changes to the wider 24.25–26.5 GHz range, in connection with a broader policy work on the 26, 28 and 38 GHz bands.
• Explains how and where to send comments and that submissions will be posted publicly on ISED’s Spectrum Management and Telecommunications website.

Who's affected#

• Current spectrum licence holders in the listed millimetre-wave bands (the companies that already hold licences).
• Wireless carriers and other service providers that use or plan to use high-frequency bands for fixed wireless or 5G-type services.
• Equipment manufacturers and technology firms that make or plan devices for these frequency ranges.
• Other interested stakeholders who want to influence how this spectrum is managed (research groups, industry associations, potential new entrants).
• If it’s not clear who exactly will be affected on a specific point, ISED’s consultation document has the detailed scope.

Why it matters#

• These frequency bands are used for high-capacity wireless services (for example, some fixed wireless and 5G uses). Decisions about licence renewal and band changes can affect where and when companies build networks.
• Renewals and rule changes influence investment decisions, the availability of equipment, and how quickly new services reach users.
• The consultation is a chance for affected parties to raise technical, commercial or policy concerns before ISED makes final decisions.