UKW Shutdown: 2026 Marks the End for Seven Radio Stations in Hesse
Seven non-commercial local radio stations (NKLs) in Hesse will lose their FM distribution contracts by June 30, 2026. The decision comes as the Media Authority of Hesse seeks to cut costs, leaving the future of these frequencies uncertain. Meanwhile, the public broadcasting fee will remain unchanged until 2027, adding to budget pressures.
The Media Authority of Hesse has confirmed that FM contracts for all seven NKLs will end in mid-2026. These stations, which provide diverse programming and platforms for socially relevant groups, have been broadcasting on DAB+ since early 2024. However, FM remains important, especially for older cars without DAB+ receivers.
Once the contracts expire, several UKW frequencies could become available for commercial broadcasters. These include Wiesbaden 92.5 MHz, Frankfurt 91.8 MHz and 103.4 MHz, Rüsselsheim 90.9 MHz, and Frankfurt 107.5 MHz. Licensed private stations such as **Rock Antenne**, **Radio Teddy**, or **Metropol FM** might take over these slots to fill coverage gaps. The Media Authority has not yet decided whether the freed-up frequencies will be reassigned or left unused. The delay in increasing the public broadcasting fee until 2027 has also contributed to financial constraints, pushing the authority to reduce FM distribution costs.
The termination of FM contracts for NKLs will impact their reach, particularly among listeners relying on older technology. Commercial broadcasters may expand into the vacated frequencies, but no final decision has been made. The Media Authority’s budget shortfall and the freeze on broadcasting fees have accelerated these changes.
Read also:
- Ignorant Youth Unfamiliar with Quebec's Cultural Landscape
- PCOS-related Gas Buildup: Explanation, Control Strategies, and Further Insights
- Astral Lore and Celestial Arrangements: Defining Terms & In-Depth Insights - Historical Accounts & Glossary of Cosmic Mythology
- "Rural Idyls with Supercars: Astonishing Sites Where Residents Cruise McLarens and Ferraris for Groceries"
