All licensed MNOs in Hong Kong are eligible to participate in the Scheme. They can submit applications for subsidies with respect to proposals for installation of RBS in rural and remote areas. Currently, there are four MNOs in Hong Kong, namely China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited, Hong Kong Telecommunications (HKT) Limited, Hutchison Telephone Company Limited and SmarTone Mobile Communications Limited.
MNOs are required to undertake that the RBS installed under the Scheme will provide 5G (or more advanced communications technologies) services with a minimum average download speed of no less than 100 Mbps. Upon completion of installation and commencement of services, MNOs need to submit necessary documentation to demonstrate that the RBS have been providing quality mobile communications services so that they can receive the subsidy.
MNOs need to comply with relevant regulations related to environmental protection during the installation of RBS, in order to reduce the impact of the RBS installation works on the surrounding environment, nearby residents and other members of the public. In addition, MNOs are required to take appropriate measures to reduce the negative visual impacts of the RBS on the surrounding environment as far as practicable.
A regulatory mechanism has always been in place to ensure that RBS will not cause radiation safety concerns and the radiation safety of the relevant facilities are in compliance with international standards, i.e. the non-ionizing radiation safety limits set by the International Commission on Non-ionizing Radiation Protection. All MNOs are required to pass OFCA’s assessment before activation of an RBS and submit an on-site radiation measurement report after activation to confirm compliance with the safety standards.
The subsidy amount for the RBS project at each site will be capped at HK$2 million. An additional subsidy of not more than HK$2 million (i.e. the cap for the entire project is HK$4 million) may be provided for RBS projects involving more complex works. Subsidies will be provided on a reimbursement basis, subject to OFCA’s final determination on the actual expenditure incurred by MNOs.
The Scheme aims to enhance network coverage and capacity of mobile communications services in rural and remote areas. When applying for subsidies, MNOs are required to submit detailed technical proposals, including the technical design of RBS and estimated coverage. Given the coverage of an RBS depends on various factors such as the terrain and its surrounding environments, the coverage of different individual RBS sites vary. OFCA will conduct a detailed assessment based on the technical proposals and supplementary information submitted by each mobile network operator applying for funding, including the specific design of the base station, terrain analysis of the installation site, surrounding environment and expected coverage area. OFCA will ensure that the application approved meets the requirements according to the terms of the project before approving the application to ensure the effectiveness of base station construction and the efficient use of public resources.
To ensure better utilisation of the RBS sites under the Scheme and make available services to a wider public, the applicant MNOs shall adhere to the “shared-use principle” by allowing other MNOs to install their mobile network facilities at the same location and confirm with other MNOs on their intent of shared-use as far as practicable. Generally speaking, priority will be accorded for applications involving sites with more participating MNOs, so as to utilize the RBS sites to the greatest extent possible.
The Scheme will provide subsidy for encouraging MNOs to install new RBS at about 50 sites in country parks, outlying islands and other rural and remote areas across different districts. OFCA will proactively coordinate with MNOs and relevant Government departments to ensure smooth completion of the works. All RBS under the Scheme are expected to be put into service progressively within four years after the Scheme is launched.
