Why Spectrum Sharing Matters

With data traffic continuing to grow, especially in cities and densely populated areas, efficient spectrum use is critical. Sharing spectrum between mobile and Wi-Fi can:

• Improve overall network performance
• Extend service coverage in rural and low-density areas
• Encourage innovation and new wireless services

The study also explores the benefits of spectrum sharing in lower frequency bands such as Band III and n77, particularly for improving rural connectivity.

Study Approach and Methodology

Economic impacts are evaluated for two stakeholder groups:

• Producers – Providers using spectrum to deliver mobile and Wi-Fi services
• Consumers – Users purchasing these services for personal or business use

London Economics collaborated with Ranplan Wireless, who used a 3D ray-tracing model to assess wireless signal propagation in five representative UK environments: High-density urban, Dense urban, Low-density urban, a stadium, Lower-density rural.

Each area was analysed under three scenarios:

1. Wi-Fi only
2. Mobile only
3. Shared use – mobile outdoors and Wi-Fi indoors

Key Findings

• Positive Net Benefits: Shared use of the Upper 6 GHz band yields economic gains for both providers and consumers.
• Strong Incentives: Both producers and consumers see significant economic surpluses, supporting market growth.
• New Revenue Streams: Sharing opens opportunities for existing providers and new entrants.
• Rural Benefits: Lower-frequency sharing could enhance coverage in underserved areas via permissive licensing.

Policy Implications

Findings support a more efficient and collaborative approach to spectrum use in the UK. This analysis contributes to DSIT’s Spectrum Sandbox programme and provides evidence for Ofcom and policymakers to assess future spectrum management strategies.

Next Steps

Although national-level impacts are modelled, the geographic sample is limited. Expanding the scope to more areas would strengthen future assessments and improve precision in policymaking.