Dutch Grid Operator TenneT Adopts Innovative Drones for Bird Safety

Dutch Grid Operator TenneT Adopts Innovative Drones for Bird Safety

(IN BRIEF) TenneT, the Dutch high-voltage grid operator, has conducted a groundbreaking pilot project using drones to install wire markers on a 150 kV high-voltage line. Traditionally, this task was performed using helicopters or cranes and climbers. The innovative approach uses a type of wire marking called the “Firefly” and is proven to be highly effective, reducing bird casualties by about 90%. TenneT aims to enhance bird protection, especially for birds in flight, and plans to evaluate this method’s success for potential use on other high-voltage connections.

(PRESS RELEASE) ARNHEM, 16-Jan-2024 — /EuropaWire/ —  TenneT, a Dutch-German transmission system operator (TSO), has made a significant advancement in bird protection by successfully conducting a pilot project that utilizes drones to install wire markers on a 150 kV high-voltage line between Dodewaard and Ede. This groundbreaking initiative marks the first of its kind in the Netherlands. Traditionally, TenneT employed helicopters or cranes and climbers to perform this task, but the introduction of drones offers a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative. Under the supervision of contractor Qirion, Slovak drone company FiiHaa carried out the two-kilometer operation near Wageningen for TenneT.

This innovative approach requires the use of a different type of wire marking known as the “Firefly,” which can be securely attached to the lightning conductors on the high-voltage line. Drones are currently unable to apply other wire marking types such as pig curls or bird flaps. However, numerous international studies have indicated that Fireflies are at least as effective as traditional markers, resulting in approximately 90% fewer wire-related bird casualties.

The high-voltage grid presents inherent risks to birds, particularly when they inadvertently collide with the lightning wire while in flight due to suboptimal visibility. To mitigate this risk and minimize the impact on bird populations, TenneT is committed to implementing the most effective measures at strategic locations. The selection of these locations is based on an assessment of the high-voltage grid’s proximity to bird flight paths. Plastic or metal markings are hung on the lightning wire to enhance visibility for birds.

TenneT ecologist Jac Hakkens explained, “Commissioned by TenneT, Sovon Vogelonderzoek Nederland (SOVON) investigated where in the Netherlands the risk of wire casualties is highest. This connection near Wageningen was on our list as a priority. We are now evaluating this new method with the drones. If the results prove positive, we can start using this type of wire marking on other compounds as well.”

While wire markers are routinely installed during the construction of new high-voltage connections or major maintenance activities, adding them to existing connections can be costly. This is due to the necessary safety measures and the requirement to decommission the high-voltage line. In cases where ground-based installation is not feasible, such as in challenging terrains like rivers and wet subsoil, helicopters are sometimes used. However, helicopter-based installations are approximately 20 times more expensive than drone-based installations and cause significantly more disruption to the surrounding environment.

TenneT’s successful pilot project using drones demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility, with a focus on enhancing bird protection on high-voltage lines while reducing costs and environmental impact.

Media contacts

Jorrit de Jong
Spokesperson
Media Relations

+31 026 373 2600
press@tennet.eu

SOURCE: TENNET