CBRS Proponent Studies: Changes to Shared Band Would be Disruptive
Two reports say increased power levels or relocating users would have negative consequences.
Two reports say increased power levels or relocating users would have negative consequences.
WASHINGTON, March 26, 2026 – Two groups supporting the Citizens Broadband Radio Service released reports this week saying major changes to the shared band would be disruptive.
On Thursday, Spectrum for the Future released a report the group commissioned from Valo Analytica that said raising power levels for even a small number of base stations would significantly interfere with current users.
“This study gives a very clear picture of what is actually at stake as a few parties push policymakers for higher power limits,” Dave Wright, Spectrum for the Future’s policy director and a former president of pro-CBRS group OnGo Alliance, said in a statement. “Billions of dollars in investment, critical safety systems, and broadband access for underserved rural communities are all on the line.”
So-called 'behind-the-meter' power generation had been seen as a potential solution to provide power to data centers fast.
As a result of increased power levels, the diverse and fast-growing array of operators using the CBRS band today would be reduced to a fraction.
Water use and rising AI demand are pushing operators to rethink traditional cooling systems.
Siding with 900 MHz incumbents, lawmakers said they fear interference from the company’s proposed system.
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