ARCEP, the French telecom regulator has implemented a spectrum refarming plan that allows former 2G network spectrum licensed to three providers to be divided among four providers for Long Term Evolution 4G services.
The 1800 MHz band had originally been licensed to three 2G providers, but now has to be used by four providers.
ARCEP put these guidelines into effect when Bouygues Telecom requested that the technological restrictions listed in its license be lifted, allowing it to deploy 4G networks in the 1800 MHz starting in October 2013.
In exchange, Bouygues Telecom was required to relinquish a portion of its frequencies, which were then allocated to Free Mobile on 1 January of this year.
As part of the plan, Orange and SFR are allowed to deploy 4G networks in the 1800 MHz starting on 25 May 2016.
They also stipulate that the two operators will relinquish a portion of their frequencies by that date.
Also, 10 MHz duplex in the band will be allocated to Free Mobile. On 25 May 2016, Orange, SFR and Bouygues Telecom each will have 20 MHz in the 1800 band, while Free Mobile has 15 MHz.
Orange and SFR retain the option of requesting that restrictions attached to the 1800 MHz band be lifted earlier than planned, if they want to begin using it to deliver 4G services before 25 May 2016.
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