The CNMC requests adjustments in the deployment of DAB+ digital radio

The National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) emite un informe sobre el Proyecto de Real Decreto por el que se adoptan medidas para impulsar la tecnología de radiodifusión digital terrestre DAB+. Aunque valora positivamente el Proyecto, plantea mejoras para precisar los plazos y los requisitos de cobertura exigibles, y con ello la seguridad jurídica.

The Project aims to promote digital radio in Spain without modifying current FM broadcasts. Although DAB/DAB+ has been present for years (with an audience of 2.6% compared to 84.6% for FM in 2024), only recently has the availability of receivers spread and millions of vehicles already incorporate compatible devices from the factory.

The Royal Decree proposes an adaptation of the Technical Plan to take advantage of the DAB+ advantages, which allows double the number of programs per multiple (from 6 to 12). This expansion will allow restructure national networks: in one, all its capacity will be allocated to the Corporation RTVE and another will contain the 12 existing private licenses; allocate the third state network to experimental uses until the Ministry determines its use; and offer greater flexibility to the autonomous communities to manage the transition from DAB to DAB+ in regional and local networks.

It should be noted that the RTVE will act as the engine of the deployment by having up to 12 channels, and gradually expanding its coverage to 85% of the population in 24 months, in addition to ensuring coverage on roads and highways to take advantage of the receivers installed in vehicles.

Assessment and recommendations of the CNMC

The CNMC positively values that the new plan orders the transition to DAB+ technology and guarantees the continuity of all existing licenses. However, it formulates a series of recommendations to reinforce the effectiveness of the deployment and ensure that the transition to digital radio is carried out with full guarantees:

Sound level normalization
The plan does not include a method to measure and normalize the loudness of emissions. As is the case with DTT, the CNMC proposes incorporating a system to monitor the sound level of programs and advertising through quantitative parameters.
Obligation to broadcast in DAB+
The project forces state operators to broadcast only in DAB+ from the beginning, while regional and local broadcasters will be able to temporarily continue in DAB. The CNMC recommends evaluating whether this differential treatment can generate competitive disadvantages.
Coverage and requirements for operators
The project maintains the minimum of 20% population coverage for private individuals, but allows it to be raised when 10% audience is reached. The CNMC asks to specify the criteria that will be applied and guarantee that audience measurement follows recognized methodologies compatible with the European Regulation on Media Freedom.
Road coverage for CRTVE
The CNMC positively values the boost to road coverage, but recommends making coverage objectives more flexible due to the breadth of the road network and the effort involved in achieving it.
Efficient use of spectrum
It is recommended to review the forecasts on indefinite reserves for experimental uses or unexploited regional networks, to ensure their compatibility with the legal deadlines that require calling for tenders or reallocating spectrum.
Low power re-emitters and public aid
The CNMC invites you to review whether the 10 W limit for re-emitters is appropriate and remembers that any public aid must comply with national and EU regulations.
Registration of parameters and technical conflicts
The CNMC welcomes the assignment of the Registry and recalls the need for the audiovisual authorities to communicate any decision on digital broadcasting licenses to it. It is also in agreement with assuming the resolution of technical conflicts between operators that share a network.