In a Plan released this week which could have implications for utility access to spectrum, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) identified 115 MHz of spectrum that will be fast-tracked for use for wireless broadband in the next five years, and it set a framework and timetable for freeing up 500 MHz over the next ten years. NTIA plans to prioritize certain candidate bands to determine which ones should be reallocated first. In addition to identifying the candidate bands for wireless broadband (including the 1695-1710 MHz band, the 3550-3650 MHz band, and two 20 MHz blocks somewhere in the 4200-4220 MHz range), the Plan outlines a framework to ensure that existing spectrum is being used efficiently (e.g. through a spectrum inventory) and that there are incentives for existing licensees to free up spectrum (e.g. through sharing and reimbursement for relocation/equipment). The Plan also lays out a timeline for the next five years, including a target date for identifying the first band of reallocated spectrum by January 2011. In addition to publishing its “Plan and Timetable for Making Available 500 MHz of Spectrum for Wireless Broadband,” NTIA also released “An Assessment of the Near-Term Viability of Accommodating Wireless Broadband Systems in the 1675-1710 MHz, 1755-1780 MHz, 3500-3650 MHz, and 4200-4220 MHz, 4380-4400 MHz Bands.” This report reveals information about the extent of use of these bands. For more information, contact the UTC Legal/Regulatory Department.