LIFE Safe Grid for Burgas project is implemented under the European LIFE programme
On October 15-16, 2024, an international conference was held in Brussels aimed at discussing the challenges related to the development of electricity distribution grids and the conservation of biodiversity in Europe. The event was organized by the Renewables Grid Initiative and TB Raab /Technisches Büro für Biologie, Austria/.
The event was attended by representatives of the European Commission, the Ministry of Environment of Belgium, electricity distribution companies from Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, as well as environmental protection organizations.
At the event, Elektrorazpredelenie Yug (part of EVN) presented its LIFE Safe Grid for Burgas project which is implemented in partnership with the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds.
It aims to protect birds from contact with power lines along the Via Pontica migratory route - the second most important migratory route for wild birds in Europe. So far, the project has secured over 1,200 electric poles, creating nearly 120 km of safe ground infrastructure for birds.
The total value of the project is nearly EUR 5,5 million, with 75% of the funds being provided by LIFE Programme of the European Commission and 25% by Elektrorazpredelenie Yug.
The presentation highlighted the need for investments in the development of the electricity distribution grid as a main factor in biodiversity conservation. Infrastructure activities for underground cable laying (known as cabling) are also important for the security of energy supply for the entire region. This measure is implemented through lengthy procedures for coordination with the responsible institutions for obtaining a building permit.
The Wingspan Conference takes place every two years and aims to bring together conservationists, scientists, renewable energy operators, electricity distribution companies, and representatives of governments and authorities to share strategies and solutions for a green energy transition.
The organizers of the event expressed special gratitude to EP Yug for the shared experience of implementing projects under the LIFE programme and protecting biodiversity. The presented results were useful for the participating electricity distribution companies at the conference.
