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The Biden administration is looking for wireless spectrum that can be repurposed to meet advanced communication needs and rising U.S. wireless demand, Reuters (subscription) reports.

What’s going on: “The Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is developing a National Spectrum Strategy with a goal to identify at least 1,500 megahertz of spectrum to study for potential new uses … including fixed and mobile wireless broadband; next-generation satellite communications and other space-based systems; advanced transportation; and industrial and commercial applications.”

• The National Spectrum Strategy will also seek to address national defense, national airspace critical infrastructure and climate forecasting and monitoring.
• The NTIA, which manages U.S. spectrum with the Federal Communications Commission, is seeking public comment on the project. 

The backdrop: Last week, Congress let the FCC’s authority to auction wireless spectrum lapse for the first time in 30 years. 

• Meanwhile, public demand for spectrum use is soaring. Wireless data traffic increased 20% in 2021.

What’s next: “‘We’ve got 6G networks coming, new mega-constellations of satellites, connected automobiles, the internet of things—all of that demands new uses of spectrum,’ [NTIA Administrator Alan] Davidson said.”