NASSAU, BAHAMAS — The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has seen “substantial growth” in demand for satellite service licensing, having issued licenses to major operators such as Starlink and Viasat. It has now launched a consultation on the Satellite Regulatory Framework to guide the development of the sector.
“URCA has noted significant advancements in satellite communications technologies, particularly with the development of non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellite operators offering initially Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) and more recently connectivity services for Earth Stations in Motion (ESIM). This trend has been accompanied by a rise in applications and expressions of interest from entities aiming to provide satellite-based electronic communications services in The Bahamas,” the regulator stated in its consultation document.
URCA noted that it has reviewed the regulatory framework to ensure it accommodates and supports existing satellite-based services, anticipates the projected growth and integration of satellite-based electronic communications services in The Bahamas, and addresses relevant regulatory issues and concerns arising from the provision of these services. Written responses to the consultation document must be submitted to URCA by January 17, 2025.
The regulator added: “The demand for licensing of satellite services in The Bahamas has seen substantial growth, with operators seeking to provide FSS and ESIM connectivity solutions. Recognizing this potential, URCA has already issued licenses to prominent satellite operators, including Starlink and Viasat. Additionally, other satellite operators have expressed strong interest in entering the Bahamian market. Several of these companies have reached out to URCA to initiate licensing applications or inquire about specific regulatory requirements for ESIM, machine-to-machine (M2M), and experimental services.”
In 2023, URCA licensed Starlink to provide FSS services across The Bahamas under its technology-neutral licensing regime. URCA noted that Starlink’s services are available throughout The Bahamas, including the Family Islands, offering universal access to satellite-based broadband services.
URCA further indicated that it is not aware of any issues within its existing licensing regime that might hinder the provision of satellite-based electronic communication services in the Family Islands or other parts of The Bahamas.
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