ICASA Consultation: Draft Amendments to Radio Frequency Spectrum and Fees Regulations
The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has published draft amendments to the Radio Frequency Spectrum Regulations, 2015, and the Radio Frequency Spectrum Fees Regulations, 2010. These proposals follow an inquiry into the licensing framework for satellite services and aim to support innovation in satellite services while ensuring efficient spectrum use.
Proposed Regulatory Changes
The draft amendments introduce a comprehensive framework for satellite services, focusing on Earth Stations in Motion (ESIM) and the registration of foreign satellite space segment operators. Key changes include:
- Introduction of ESIM Regulations: Establishing procedures for the authorization and operation of Earth Stations in Motion (e.g., aeronautical, maritime, and land-mobile satellite terminals).
- Registration of Foreign Satellite Operators: Requiring foreign satellite space segment operators to register their systems with ICASA using a new standardized form (Form F).
- New Definitions: Adding formal definitions for terms such as "Astronomy Device," "Earth Station in Motion (ESIM)," "Network Control and Monitoring Centre (NCMC)," and "Non-Geostationary Orbit Systems (NGSO)."
- Radio Astronomy Protection: Mandatory coordination with Management Authorities to mitigate interference with radio astronomy geographic advantage areas.
- Fee Structure Revision: Implementation of new formulas for satellite hub ground stations and terminal networks (including VSAT and ESIM) to incentivize the use of higher, less congested frequency bands.
Impact on Manufacturers and Industry Stakeholders
The proposed changes impose several new requirements and technical considerations for manufacturers and operators:
- Type Approval: All equipment used for transmission must comply with relevant technical specifications and meet South African type approval requirements.
- Standardization: Foreign ESIMs may be exempt from licensing for up to 90 days if they comply with specific international standards, including ETSI EN 303 978 and various ITU Resolutions (e.g., Resolution 156, 169).
- Control Requirements: ESIMs must be subject to permanent monitoring and control by a Network Control and Monitoring Centre (NCMC). Devices must be capable of receiving and acting upon "enable" and "disable" transmission commands.
- Lawful Interception: Satellite segment operators must provide and maintain lawful interception capabilities in accordance with the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-related Information Act (RICA).
- Penalties: Non-compliance with the new satellite space segment regulations may result in fines of up to R5,000,000.
Technical Parameters and Frequency Allocations
The consultation outlines specific frequency-related impacts:
- Permitted Bands: A new "Annexure K" specifies available frequency ranges for different ESIM categories (GSO ESV, GSO AES, NGSO ESIM, etc.), covering various segments within the 5 GHz, 10-15 GHz, 17-20 GHz, and 27-30 GHz ranges.
- Incentivized Bands: The proposed fee formula introduces a frequency factor (FREQ) that significantly reduces fees for systems operating in higher bands (23 GHz to 50 GHz) to encourage their adoption.
- Interference Management: For NGSO systems, specific measures are required to suppress transmissions in channels adjacent to 10.7 GHz to protect terrestrial services.
Deadline for Feedback
ICASA invites interested stakeholders to submit written representations on these draft regulations. Submissions must be sent by email to RRamendments@icasa.org.za and mmchunu@icasa.org.za.
Submission Deadline: 29 June 2026, by 16:00 (South African Time).
