By James Barton
Lithuania’s three main operators have all procured spectrum holdings following the conclusion of the regulator’s auction of 5G-ready 3.5GHz airwaves.
TeleGeography reports that the Lithuanian Communications Regulatory Authority (RRT / Rysiu Reguliavimo Tarnyba) put three 100MHz blocks of spectrum in the 3400MHz-3700MHz range up for auction, with a reserve price of EUR3 million (US$3.1 million) per lot. The licences are initially valid for 20 years.
Tele2 and Bite Lithuania procured their spectrum blocks at the reserve price, while Telia Lietuva far exceeded this bid, shelling out EUR7 million for its 100MHz block. The licence terms oblige holders to launch 5G services in at least one city from 2023, with major cities to be covered by 5G networks from 2024. All towns and built-up residential areas must receive 5G coverage by 2030.
Lithuania’s auction of 5G-capable 700MHz spectrum – which commenced in May – has not yet concluded.
