Utility Broadband Alliance Backs Expansion to 5/5 Broadband Networks in 900 MHz Band

The Utility Broadband Alliance (UBBA) is advocating for an expansion in the availability of broadband spectrum for critical infrastructure industries, particularly utilities. In their recent public comments to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), UBBA expressed support for a Petition for Rulemaking seeking the deployment of 5/5 megahertz broadband networks in the 900 MHz band.

UBBA acknowledges the FCC's previous decision to allocate a 3/3 MHz broadband segment in the 900 MHz band, recognizing it as a significant opportunity for utilities to establish private broadband networks. However, they now propose expanding this allocation to 5/5 MHz, arguing that it would further enhance utilities' ability to design, deploy, and operate private broadband networks effectively.

“The FCC’s previous decision to realign the 900 MHz band and establish a 3/3 MHz broadband segment was, as noted in the Petition, a landmark step creating a significant opportunity for utilities to design, deploy, and operate private broadband networks,” said Bobbi Harris, executive director, UBBA. “The decision provided utilities and other enterprise entities access to much-needed broadband spectrum, enabling potential users to have access to a global ecosystem of equipment, technologies, and services. We now urge the FCC to take the next step in the evolution of private wireless broadband by providing for an optional, expanded 5/5 MHz broadband segment in the 900 MHz band.”