Elisa, Telia and DNA win auction to build 5G networks

The auction on 26 GHz (25.1-27.5 GHz) spectrum arranged by the Transport and Communications Agency Traficom was concluded on 8 June 2020.

The participants in the auction were Elisa Corporation, Telia Finland Plc and DNA Plc that submitted the winning bids for the construction of the 5G networks. The auction generated 21 million euros in revenue to the state.

There were three 800 MHz frequency bands in the auction. The winning bids are:

-Frequency band 25.1-25.9 GHz 

Elisa Corporation

7 million euros

-Frequency band 25.9-26.7 GHz

Telia Finland Plc

7 million euros

-Frequency band 26.7-27.5 GHz

DNA Plc

7 million euros

Available in 30 cities and municipalities

The Ministry of Transport and Communications says "Finland's position as the leading country in high-speed 5G networks will be further strengthened as more frequencies are allocated to the 5G networks."

The Government granted the first licences for the construction of 5G networks in the 3.5 GHz spectrum in 2018. Since 2019, the 5G network has been made available in 30 cities and municipalities in Finland. 

What are the next steps?

The Government will grant the operating licences in accordance with the end results of the auction.

The 26 GHz (25.1-27.5 GHz) spectrum can be used for the construction of 5G networks as of 1 July 2020. The licences will remain valid until 31 December 2033 in mainland Finland.