Revitalizing Nature: Vattenfall Converts Power Line Corridors into Biodiversity Sanctuaries

From Power Lines to Biodiversity Hotspots: Vattenfall’s Commitment to Conservation

(IN BRIEF) Vattenfall, an energy company in Sweden, is converting its power line corridors into biodiversity hotspots, spanning 250 kilometers. These corridors have become crucial habitats for endangered species and are comparable to traditional, species-rich grasslands. Through extensive analysis and field studies, Vattenfall has identified 980 hotspots within the corridors and implemented tailored maintenance plans to enhance biodiversity. Measures include creating glades, widening patrol paths, and removing cut material. The company aims to apply this approach to 70% of the hotspots by 2025. Notably, Vattenfall’s efforts have benefited species such as the red-listed marsh fritillary butterfly. These initiatives align with Vattenfall’s commitment to responsible land use and sustainable energy transition, promoting biodiversity preservation.

(PRESS RELEASE) STOCKHOLM, 28-Jun-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — Vattenfall, a Swedish government-owned multinational power company, is turning its power line corridors into biodiversity hotspots, spanning 250 kilometers, to support endangered species and enhance biodiversity. These power line corridors have been identified as crucial green infrastructure for grassland species, providing habitats comparable to traditional, species-rich grasslands.

Recognizing the decline of species-rich grasslands and the increasing importance of power line corridors due to the energy transition, Vattenfall has taken proactive measures to preserve biodiversity. Through GIS-based analysis and field studies conducted in 2017 and 2019, Vattenfall identified 1,600 kilometers of power line corridors in middle and northern Sweden as potential hotspots for valuable grassland habitats.

After field visits and biodiversity assessments, 980 hotspots covering approximately 250 kilometers of power line corridors were classified based on the presence of red-listed species, indicator species, regionally important species, and biotope quality. Vattenfall has implemented tailored maintenance plans for each hotspot, incorporating techniques such as creating glades, widening patrol paths, and removing cut material. These measures aim to improve conditions for biodiversity and increase the value of the hotspots.

So far, maintenance has been carried out on 30% of the hotspots, with a target of introducing the tailored maintenance approach to 70% of the hotspots by 2025. Vattenfall views enhancing biodiversity as a crucial aspect of its sustainability goals, leading the company to expand its biodiversity focus to include substations in the regional network.

One notable success story resulting from Vattenfall’s efforts is the marsh fritillary butterfly, a red-listed species and subject to EU’s habitats directive and national protection measures. The butterfly has thrived in Vattenfall’s facilities in and around Älvkarleby, thanks to the implementation of special plans in cooperation with local authorities in Uppsala and Gävleborg.

Vattenfall remains committed to responsible land use, sustainable energy transition, and the preservation of biodiversity. By leveraging its power line corridors, the company continues to play a significant role in supporting endangered species and fostering ecological balance.

Media contacts:

+46 8 739 50 10
press@vattenfall.com

SOURCE: Vattenfall AB