EU yo propose indefinite spectrum licences for telecoms

The European Commission is set to unveil the Digital Networks Act, often referred to as the DNA. This is a planned overhaul of European Union telecom rules that govern how mobile and fixed internet networks are built, managed, and regulated. This legislation is essentially about how Europe ensures that fast, reliable internet and mobile services are available everywhere, while balancing competition, investment, and public oversight.

At the core of the proposal is digital infrastructure. This includes mobile networks such as 5G and future generations, as well as fixed broadband networks like fibre-optic cables that deliver high-speed internet to homes and businesses. Building and maintaining these networks is expensive, and the Commission argues that existing rules do not always provide enough certainty or incentives for long-term investment.

One of the most significant changes under discussion concerns the radio spectrum. Radio spectrum is the invisible resource that allows mobile phones, Wi-Fi, and many other wireless services to work. Governments license parts of this spectrum to telecom operators for limited periods. According to the draft document, the Commission plans to allow licences of indefinite duration.

The goal is to give operators greater long-term certainty so they are more willing to invest in network rollout. At the same time, new ‘use-it-or-share-it’ conditions would apply. These would require operators to actively use the spectrum they hold or make it available to others, to prevent hoarding and ensure that spectrum supports real-world connectivity.

The draft also points to stronger oversight of dominant companies in telecom-related markets. Where firms have significant market power, regulators would be expected to apply clearer rules on transparency, non-discrimination, and pricing. This is intended to prevent large players from using their position to block competition or distort related markets, such as wholesale access to networks.

Another area addressed is the rollout of fibre networks and the gradual replacement of older copper-based infrastructure. The Commission plans to issue guidance to help align national approaches, while allowing flexibility on deadlines. This is meant to support the EU’s 2030 connectivity goals, which include widespread access to very high-speed broadband across all member states.

The Digital Networks Act also touches on the role of large online platforms. Instead of introducing mandatory fees or binding obligations for these companies to fund network infrastructure, the draft proposes a voluntary cooperation framework. This would be moderated by the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications, known as BEREC. Under this approach, telecom operators and large platforms would engage in technical discussions and develop best practice guidelines, rather than being subject to new compulsory payments.

The proposal represents a shift in strategy. Earlier debates focused heavily on whether large technology companies should be required to contribute financially to network costs. The Digital Networks Act moves away from that idea and instead prioritises reforms to spectrum licensing and telecom regulation as the main tools to encourage investment.

The draft is not final. Member states and the European Parliament will negotiate key issues, including how much authority should sit at EU level versus national regulators, how to safeguard competition, and how to maintain existing net neutrality protections.