Renewal of 24 GHz and 38 GHz Licences

Summary#

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada has opened a public consultation (notice SPB-002-23) under the Radiocommunication Act on renewing certain spectrum licences in the millimetre-wave bands and on possible changes to nearby frequencies. The department is asking for comments by December 19, 2023 to help decide how licences in these bands will be handled going forward.

What it does#

• Proposes to renew eligible licences in the 24.25–24.45 GHz and 25.05–25.25 GHz frequency ranges.
• Proposes to renew licences in the 38 GHz range (listed as 37.6–40.0 GHz).
• Opens a preliminary consultation on possible changes across the broader 24.25–26.5 GHz range, tied to a wider review of the 26, 28 and 38 GHz bands.
• Invites written comments (electronic preferred) to be sent by December 19, 2023; comments will be posted publicly and then reviewed by the department.
• Provides the consultation documents on ISED’s Spectrum Management and Telecommunications website.

Who's affected#

• Current holders of spectrum licences in 24.25–24.45 GHz, 25.05–25.25 GHz, and 37.6–40.0 GHz.
• Wireless carriers, fixed wireless Internet providers, and other companies using or planning to use millimetre-wave spectrum (for example, some 5G services).
• Equipment manufacturers and system integrators that build gear for those bands.
• Other stakeholders (municipalities, large enterprises, researchers) with plans that depend on access to these frequencies.
• It is unclear from the notice exactly which licences are considered “eligible” for renewal; that detail will be resolved in ISED’s consultation documents and follow-up.

Why it matters#

• These frequency bands are important for high-capacity, short-range wireless services such as some 5G deployments and fixed wireless access. Renewal or reallocation decisions affect who can keep using the airwaves and under what conditions.
• The outcome could influence investment decisions, service continuity for existing networks, and availability of spectrum for new deployments.
• The December 19, 2023 comment deadline is the main chance for affected businesses and communities to give input before ISED makes decisions.