US satellite TV operator Dish Network has been given permission to convert satellite spectrum for wireless use, while plans to auction adjacent spectrum have also been given the green light.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the plans for Dish’s AWS-4 satellite spectrum, but with power level restrictions to ensure it doesn’t interfere with adjacent blocks, Reuters reports.

Dish previously said these restrictions could “cripple” its mobile plans.

The company will “consider its strategic options and the optimal approach to put this spectrum to use for the benefit of consumers”. Options include selling the spectrum or partnering with another wireless company to offer mobile broadband services.

The FCC also approved a framework to auction spectrum adjacent to that owned by Dish in 2013. This “H block” spectrum is of interest to US number-three operator Sprint.

The steps were described by the FCC as “significantly advancing” the Obama administration’s goal of freeing up 500 MHz of spectrum for broadband by 2020.