DTEK Dnipro Grids is installing light-reflective markers to protect birds populating the Bulakhivskyi reserve

The installation of such light-reflective markers is common global practice. Light-reflective markers fixed on overhead power lines make them visible to flying birds. Currently, DTEK Dnipro Grids specialists are mounting protective devices on the territory of the Bulakhivskyi Estuary reserve in Pavlohrad District. Light-reflective markers are mounted on 35 kV overhead power lines at 10‑meter intervals. Now, the birds can see an obstacle during night-time and safely avoid it.

‘During the past 30 years, the migration of 178 bird species including rare and red-listed birds has been recorded on the territory of the Bulakhivskyi Estuary reserve. To protect the birds from collision with power lines during seasonal migration, we have already installed here 765 markers. Another 500 are expected to be installed in the course of this year. These efforts are made within the scope of implementation of the Sustainable Development Program and DTEK’s commitments under the United Nations Global Impact taken by DTEK in connection with the preservation of biodiversity,’ commented DTEK Dnipro Grids CEO Andrii Tereshchuk.

The company’s specialists systematically monitor the power lines and install bird protection devices. In addition to light-reflective markers, they mount wooden and metal nests for the red-listed stock-dove and cover insulators and cables with special casings. This makes them safe for birds, and prevents a risk of interruptions in power supply for consumers. Moreover, DTEK Dnipro Grids has pioneered the installation of artificial platforms for storks that prefer nesting on high-voltage towers. In the past 7 years, 146 nests have already been installed in Tsarychanka, Pavlohrad, Petropavlivka, Solone, Mezhova Districts and other districts of the region.

A video showing the process of installation of bird protection markers can be viewed here.