Eutelsat has ceased transmissions on the disputed German-controlled frequencies at 28.5 degrees East. They have now been adopted by SES.
The move follows last months decision by the Arbitral Tribunal constituted under the rules of the International Chamber of Commerce of Paris.
It a joint statement, SES and Eutelsat said the two satellite operators had collaborated in the best interests of customers to ensure a smooth transition of operations. As of October 4, SES is operating and Eutelsat has ceased operating on these frequencies. The transfer was successfully completed in the night of 3-4 October.
Broadband TV News understands close to 100 channels were switched by Arqiva alone – a process that took under two hours.
The frequencies, held through the German operator Media Broadcast, are used to broadcast to the UK, largely for the BSkyB and Freesat platforms.
Eutelsat said revenues from the disputed frequencies are expected to be in the region of approximately €25m for each of the two following years.
SES and Eutelsat are in continuing discussions to find a solution following the arbitration.
