Cable operators join forces to obtain mobile frequencies

Euskaltel, R, Telecable and Ono have joined forces to obtain frequencies that will allow them to coordinately deploy a new mobile communications network in both the low and high bands so that they can provide both traditional voice services and new mobile broadband services and compete on equal terms with the rest of the operators.

Cable operators have joined together to obtain spectrum in the refarming and bidding processes for new frequency bands proposed by the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce. Euskaltel, Telecable, R and Ono have requested that appropriate conditions be established to be able to access frequencies in both the low and high bands so that they can provide both traditional voice services and new mobile broadband services and compete on equal terms with the rest of the operators.

This is the first time that cable operators present a joint approach with the aim of strengthening their networks as a competitive alternative in an increasingly convergent market. Cable operators do not have the spectrum to be able to develop new networks and compete on equal terms with mobile operators. Right now in Spain, any operator can make investments in new fixed networks, but not everyone who wants to invest can do so in the world of mobile networks.

Over the last decade, the cable sector has made important investments of close to 10 billion euros for the development of new generation networks, and it is decisive in their opinion "that the new tenders on 800MHz and 2.6GHz frequencies and 'refarming' allow new distribution approaches in which new agents are entered into the market, which would not be possible if only a distribution of resources between current mobile operators is proposed."

Euskaltel, R, Telecable and ONO consider that “the MITyC has the opportunity to improve the conditions of competitive balance if it allocates the radio spectrum effectively and efficiently, a determining factor in the development of competition in the market.” The National Competition Commission (CNC) itself recently warned that, in no case should it be repeated that established operators, in clear reference to Movistar, Vodafone, Orange and Yoigo, have already guaranteed access to frequencies in principle, in addition to advocating that priority be given to operators that do not currently have frequencies, such as cable.

In his opinion, "cable has a modern fiber optic network to connect homes and businesses and needs frequencies to be able to deploy mobile base stations and develop its business with the necessary competitiveness, benefiting the end consumer. Not establishing the appropriate conditions to enable the cable sector's access to frequencies would greatly limit the drive for an advanced and competitive market."
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