Industry Canada sets stage for future spectrum auctions; ponders satellite changes

By Perry Hoffman

OTTAWA - Spectrum set asides and caps appear to be clearly on the table for the next spectrum auction, according to documents released by Industry Canada this week. While the documents, which relate to spectrum auctions and the renewal of cellular and PCS licences (click here for list), don’t specifically say that the government will use either of these methods in upcoming auctions, the way in which it describes their potential use leads one to believe Industry Canada is seriously considering them.Set asides of spectrum and caps will be used, according to the department, when it’s determined that the benefits...