Irish telecom regulator ComReg has announced the results of its multi-band spectrum auction. This auction awarded spectrum rights in the former GSM-only bands (900 MHz and 1800 MHz) and in the 800 MHz band (‘Digital Dividend’). The licenses enable the operators to start 4G LTE services beginning 2013.

Meteor, Telefónica and Vodafone won lots in 800MHz, 900 MHz and 1800 MHz frequency bands while Hutchison 3G Ireland was awarded lots in 900MHz and 1800MHz frequency bands.

This auction sees the release of 140 MHz of paired spectrum, more than doubling the 64.8 MHz of paired spectrum currently assigned in these bands.

Winning Bidders will pay approximately €854.64 million for these spectrum rights, comprising of  €481.7 million in Upfront Fees along with annual Spectrum Usage Fees totaling €372.95 million which will be adjusted for inflation and paid in installments until July 2030.