Full name of the project
Reduction of mortality risk on globally endangered birds through retrofitting of hazardous overhead power lines in South-eastern Europe.
Objectives
Reduce human-induced mortality of the globally endangered Eastern Imperial Eagle and Egyptian Vulture. The project will implement cutting-edge solutions to prevent bird mortality caused by electrocution and collisions with overhead power lines, a significant threat to both species.
Activities
- Insulating over 17,000 hazardous electricity pylons and installing 2,500 bird diverters on aerial conductors across 100% and 80% of EIE and EV national breeding populations, respectively;
- Pilot remote methods to identify mortality hotspots and guide interventions more effectively, and test innovative technologies for retrofitting power lines, ensuring long-term sustainability;
- Establishing an international network for experience exchange and best practices between grid operators across the Balkans and along the species’ migratory flyways.
Duration
5 years (July 2025 – July 2030).
Target areas
14 SPA, 48 IBA/KBA and “stepping stone” areas in Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Turkey.
Partners
Coordinating beneficiary: EP Yug (ELEKTRORAZPREDELENIE YUG EAD).
Associated beneficiaries: EVN Macedonia (EVN MAKEDONIJA AKCIONERSKO DRUSHTVOZA USLUGI SKOPJE), BSPB, DOGA DERNEGI, MES (MACEDONIAN ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY).
Funding
11 304 127.35 , through the LIFE programme of the European Union.
