In conjunction with its adoption of the landmark C-band Order to clear 280 megahertz of C-band spectrum at 3.7-3.98 GHz for 5G and wireless broadband uses, the FCC has also released for comment the proposed bidding procedures for Auction 107 currently scheduled for December 8, 2020. Incumbent C-band satellite and programming services would be migrated pursuant to a detailed 5-year transition plan with incentives to complete a substantial portion of the transition in three years. As proposed, Auction 107 would offer by ascending clock auction over 5,600 20-megahertz, unpaired, overlay licenses by partial economic area (PEA) with 15-year renewable terms. As detailed in the C-band Order, new licensees also would be responsible for the relocation costs relating to current C-band services. Comments on the proposed Auction 107 procedures are due by May 1, 2020 and reply comments by May 15, 2020.
