Radio Spectrum: A Key Resource For The Digital Single Market

Radio spectrum refers to a specific range of frequencies of electromagnetic energy that is used to communicate information. Applications important for society such as radio and television broadcasting, civil aviation, satellites, defence and emergency services depend on specific allocations of radio frequency. Recently the demand for spectrum has increased dramatically, driven by growing quantities of data transmitted over the internet and rapidly increasing numbers of wireless devices, including smartphones and tablets, Wi-Fi networks and everyday objects connected to the internet. Radio spectrum is a finite natural resource that needs to be managed to realise the maximum economic and social benefits.

In setting out his political priorities, European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker indicated that ambitious telecommunication reforms, to break down national silos in the management of radio spectrum, are an important step in the creation of a Digital Single Market.

Written by Ron Davies.

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