By opening up for public input on how radio spectrum should be planned and managed over the next five years, the NCC is taking an important step toward shaping the future of telecommunications in Canada with the start of this Public Inquiry on the Spectrum Roadmap 2026-2030.
In addition to gathering input from Canadians on how the radio spectrum should be managed and developed over the next five years, this Inquiry will also help the NCC develop a roadmap that will allow telecom operators, technology innovators, policymakers and citizens an opportunity to have their say on who will receive access to and how they will use the radio spectrum during the period between 2026 and 2030.
Why the Spectrum Roadmap Matters
Spectrum planning influences mobile wireless coverage, internet download speed and the development of new technology such as 5G and future generation 6G services. Demand for Data on Mobile Devices is expected to grow by over 30% a year through 2030 due to an increase in Streaming Services (e.g.) Video Streaming, IOT Applications and AI services’ use on mobile devices. Countries that have developed clear spectrum pathways for their mobile network operators are likely to see a greater amount of new telecoms investment and foster quicker mobile Digital Inclusion. The announcement of this inquiry into spectrum congestion by the NCC sends a message that it will help foster innovation, promote healthy competition and the public interest while reducing spectrum congestion.
Stakeholder Participation and Policy Direction
Broad Participation: The NCC welcomes submissions from a diverse set of stakeholders, including startups and consumer organisations. Past consultations across regions have resulted in more transparent auction processes, fair price models, and the ability to improve connectivity in rural areas.
Further Reading: If you’d like to know more about future telecom spectrum planning and digital infrastructure policies and how they impact the creation of national broadband strategies, please see our in-depth explanation of these developing policies.
Key Focus Areas of the Inquiry
| Focus Area | Key Objective |
| Spectrum Allocation | Efficient use across bands |
| 5G & Beyond | Preparing for future technologies |
| Market Competition | Ensuring fair access |
| Rural Connectivity | Bridging the digital divide |
| Regulatory Certainty | Attracting long-term investment |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the NCC Spectrum Roadmap 2026-2030?
A. The NCC Spectrum Roadmap 2026-2030 is a strategic document that describes how the NCC will manage and allocate radio frequency spectrum over the next 5 years.
Q2. Why did the NCC start a public inquiry about radio frequency spectrum management?
A. The NCC initiated a public inquiry to provide stakeholders an opportunity to provide input regarding spectrum management decisions and for transparency in its development of future-ready spectrum policies.
Q3. How will the NCC Spectrum Roadmap affect consumers?
A. The NCC Spectrum Roadmap will impact the speed of mobile services, the quality of mobile networks, the availability of mobile services, and the pricing of mobile services.
Q4. Who can provide input during the NCC public inquiry?
A. Telecommunication operators, businesses, experts, and the general public are welcome to submit feedback during the NCC public inquiry.
Q5. How will the public inquiry help 5G and other future technologies?
A. The public inquiry will help to ensure that the NCC has sufficient spectrum available for 5G development and other advanced technologies.
