Cable Europe calls for Europe-wide spectrum strategy

Matthias Kurth

Spectrum stakeholders need to work together to create a Europe-wide spectrum strategy, according to Matthias Kurth, executive chairman of cable industry body Cable Europe.

Speaking at the European Spectrum Management Conference in Brussels, Kurth said that stakeholders need to plan for the explosion in video and television demand both linear and non-linear, an increase in access points as mobility grows, and growing demand for WiFi spectrum.

“We need to ask ourselves three questions before assigning spectrum,” said Kurth. “Is the usage the most efficient possible? Is there a risk of interference with existing, efficient spectrum users? And where is the strongest demand likely to be in the future?  This, combined with comprehensive impact assessments and clear policy recommendations flowing from the Commission, will safeguard the future coexistence which is an imperative for industry and consumers alike”.

Kurth also called for the principles of coexistence and future-oriented planning to guarantee the security of new and existing services to be placed at the centre of spectrum planning.