The Council of Ministers in Spain has given the green light to a significant shift in the country's broadcasting landscape with the approval of a new National Technical Plan for Digital Terrestrial Television (TDT). Approved on March 25, 2025, this plan will not only facilitate the launch of ultra-high definition (UHD) broadcasts but also pave the way for a competitive new state-level television channel to be tendered soon.
In a press briefing following the council meeting, the Minister of Education, Pilar Alegría, remarked that the measure had been "debated and agreed with the sector since June of last year". Such thorough discussions underline the government's intent to modernize Spain's audiovisual infrastructure. "Each technological advancement in television has been accompanied by a national plan," she stated, drawing a parallel to previous transitions like moving from analog to digital broadcasts.
The introduction of the DVB-T2 technology is a key component of this plan. This advanced transmission system will enhance the quality of broadcasts, making UHD the new standard, while also optimizing the use of the radio spectrum. As emphasized by government sources, citizens will not face the inconvenience of having to retune their televisions, a positive change from past technological transitions.
The benefits of this new technology extend to broadcasting providers as well. They will be better equipped to compete against emerging platforms such as satellite and internet television. The integration of this technology significantly increases capacity within each digital multiplex, thus allowing for more efficient deployment of services. Moreover, this restructuring will ensure that no existing channels are lost in the process, a reassurance that will sit well with many viewers.
Implementing this plan will occur in two distinct phases. During the first stage, state-level UHD channels will be introduced, broadcasting existing content so viewers can adapt to the new technology without losing access to their favorite shows. Concurrently, efforts will be made to promote the sale of compatible television receivers that can handle the new UHD broadcasts. Once the majority of households are well-equipped, the second phase will roll out, further embedding the benefits of the DVB-T2 technology across all TDT services.
Importantly, the approval of this plan has fostered a new opportunity for broadcasting innovation in Spain. The government is set to tender a new state-level channel, which will soon join the TDT landscape, further broadening the viewing choices for citizens. However, the process has not been without its controversies. Grupo Prisa, a key player in the Spanish media landscape, has faced internal strife regarding its participation in this new bid.
The board of directors at Prisa ruled out applying for the new television license on February 25, 2025, shifting their strategic focus more towards their strengths in press and radio. Sources from the company indicated that despite considering the opportunity, they found it more prudent to concentrate their efforts on press and radio, which have historically provided robust support from their audiences.
As Spain moves toward a modernized broadcasting future, the measures outlined in this National Technical Plan signify a commitment to enhancing viewing quality for all while maintaining existing services. The government’s efforts highlight a strategic vision aimed at ensuring TDT remains competitive in a digital age that increasingly favors flexible and high-quality audiovisual content.
By investing in advanced broadcasting technologies and facilitating the emergence of new content providers, the hope is to cater to a growing audience that demands better quality and more diverse options. As this new chapter in Spanish broadcasting unfolds, the excitement among industry stakeholders and viewers alike remains palpable, setting the stage for a vibrant future in media consumption.
