5G technology has got the go ahead in Guernsey.
The States yesterday unanimously backed proposals to “direct the Guernsey Competition & Regulatory Authority to develop and implement a spectrum licensing framework to deploy 5G and successive technologies to the Bailiwick”.
The Economic Development Committee successfully argued that it will benefit the island in the long term with next generation digital infrastructure expected to deliver “resilient, fast, future-proof digital connectivity to homes, businesses and public services, enabling a thriving digital economy”.
ED President, Deputy Neil Inder said approving the licensing framework will ensure the islands keep up with technological developments elsewhere.
“As the hardware and software pick up and get faster, we need the connectivity between the network and the actual hardware systems to allow us to progress,” he said.
ED Committee Member, Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller agreed that it will benefit the island economically.
“Once the roll-out is completed by the telecoms providers, it will make Guernsey one of the most digitally connected jurisdictions in the world by the end of 2027,” she added.
Sure has welcomed the States approval of legislation to introduce 5G technology locally, saying it will now “confidently press ahead” with its own plans.
“Deputies’ unanimous approval of a policy letter to allow 5G technology in Guernsey is a vote for the island’s future,” said Group CEO Alistair Beak.
“It means that Sure can confidently press ahead with our plans to invest up to £48m to build a world-class 5G mobile network which, coupled with the fibre network, will completely transform telecoms.
“Islanders will benefit from 5G’s faster speeds and greater coverage, and our new network will be part of Guernsey’s critical national infrastructure that supports our increasingly digital lives.”