9 July 2021

(NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS) The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has issued a Request for Applications (RFA) for an Individual Spectrum Licence (ISL) for use of the frequency 90.7 MHz or 105.7 MHz to provide FM radio broadcast services on the island of New Providence, Bahamas.

In June 2021, URCA conducted a review of the radio spectrum being used for FM Radio Broadcasting on the island of New Providence and as a result of their band survey, the independent regulator determined that the two frequencies could now be made available for FM radio broadcast service in New Providence.

As a part of their submission, applicants must include a broadcast plan outlining their programme content, with strong emphasis on previously unmet needs and the interests of listeners. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of ownership, a business plan and details on the financial strength of the company as well as it’s technical capability in radio broadcasting.

URCA stated that all interested parties will be given equal opportunity noting that following the competitive process as required under in section 26(5) of the Communications Act, 2009, the licensees will be awarded to applicants who best meet the outlined criteria and are deemed best capable of using the spectrum in a manner that will benefit both consumers and the overall electronic communications sector in The Bahamas.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, 13 August 2021 by 3:00pm (EDT). URCA will review and assess all applications received with a written notification being issued to successful applicants. The regulator expects to grant the licences to the successful applicants on or before 30 August 2021.

A copy of the RFA detailing eligibility requirements and other related documents can be downloaded at www.urcabahamas.bs.

###

MEDIA CONTACT:
Mavis Johnson Collie
Corporate and Consumer Relations Manager
Utilities Regulation & Competition Authority
Telephone: (242) 396-5201
Email: mjcollie@urcabahamas.bs
Fax: (242) 393-0153