FCC 4.9 GHz Sharing Proposal ‘A Positive Development,’ UTC’s Ditto Says

Washington, March 22, 2018 –Utilities Technology Council President and CEO Joy Ditto issued the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission formally proposed to expand access to the 4.9 GHz spectrum band:

“UTC applauds the Federal Communications Commission for adopting its Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding the 4.9 GHz band, and it supports expanding eligibility to include ‘critical infrastructure industry’ (CII) entities, such as utilities to hold primary 4.9 GHz licenses.  The 4.9 GHz band is lightly used and expanding eligibility to include utilities to hold primary licenses will help to make more effective use of the spectrum. UTC has worked with the National Public Safety Telecommunications Council to put forward a band plan that would include utilities as eligible to hold licenses in the band. The FCC proposal appears to address many of the priorities we identified in support of the NPSTC plan. Spectrum is the key to grid security and modernization, and this is an important and crucial first step. We look forward to working with the FCC and other stakeholders as this initiative moves forward.”

About UTC

The Utilities Technology Council (UTC) is a global trade association dedicated to serving critical infrastructure providers. Through advocacy, education and collaboration, UTC creates a favorable business, regulatory and technology environment for our members who own or operate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems in support of their core business. For more information: UTC.org