Elia adapts high-voltage lines to protect migrating birds
Together with environmental organisations, energy grid manager Elia has determined which of its high-voltage lines are in high-risk areas for migrating birds and are making adjustments to them
Up to 500,000 bird deaths annually
The network of high voltage lines in Belgium kills between 170,000 and 500,000 birds. The lines are more or less invisible to the birds, especially in misty or dark conditions.
One possible solution, said Elia, is to attach “beacons” to the cables – white or red balls that increase visibility. Another measure, commonly used in France and Spain, is the placing of curled wires, or “bird curls”, on the cables, which facilitates the birds’ depth perception.
An extensive analysis was carried out of bird species that are prone to flying against the lines, like seagulls and herons. In total, 3.4% of Elia’s high voltage network in Belgium falls into the high-risk category. Limburg’s Maas Valley, for instance, is considered high-risk because it contains several gathering points for water birds.
The first adjustment to a high-voltage line has been made, in Oudenaarde, East Flanders.
Photo: Corbis
