Telia Sweden, a major player in the telecommunications arena, has successfully secured valuable spectrum licenses in the recent auction held by Sweden’s Post and Telecom Authority (PTS). The acquired spectrum spans critical frequency bands, enhancing Telia’s capabilities for the ongoing digital transformation in Sweden.
Telia’s triumph in the auction is reflected in the spectrum allocation, encompassing 2×15 MHz in the 900 MHz band, 2×20 MHz in the 2.1 GHz band, and 2×30 MHz in the 2.6 GHz band. These licenses, valid for 23 and 25 years, stand as vital assets in the nation’s continuous journey towards digital evolution.
At a total cost of SEK 1.55 billion, Telia’s strategic acquisition enables the expansion of their 4G and 5G network coverage across Sweden. The phased payment approach involves 50 percent (approximately SEK 780 million) to be paid within 30 days, with the remaining 50 percent slated for completion by the end of 2025.
The spectrum’s importance is underscored by its historical usage for 2G, 3G, and 4G in the 900 MHz, 2.1 GHz, and 2.6 GHz bands, respectively, supporting a substantial portion of Sweden’s mobile network traffic. Telia’s acquisition aims to bolster their 4G and 5G networks, focusing on broader coverage, improved capacity, and enhanced digital experiences, particularly in underserved rural areas and along high-traffic railway lines connecting key cities.
Anders Olsson, CEO of Telia Sweden, expressed satisfaction with the auction’s outcome and emphasized the pivotal role these licenses play in fortifying their spectrum position and network leadership in the Swedish market. Currently, over 75 percent of Sweden’s population has access to Telia’s 5G network, a figure expected to soar with the new spectrum assets.
The licenses for the 900 MHz band are set to be valid from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2048, while the 2.1 GHz and 2.6 GHz band licenses will extend from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2050.
Telia has been at the forefront of 5G advancements, launching Sweden’s inaugural large public 5G network in Stockholm in 2020. Their ongoing efforts include the NorthStar program, a collaborative initiative aimed at integrating 5G technology across various industries and sectors, ensuring Sweden’s industrial enterprises can harness the potential of this cutting-edge technology.
