DTEK Kyiv Regional Grids to install 50 nesting platforms for storks across the region in 2021
DTEK Kyiv Regional Grids has joined the environmental education project named #EnergyWings, which was launched by the DTEK Grids Operating Holding. The main goal is to preserve the white stork population in Ukraine and draw public attention to the problem of declining biodiversity and protecting the environment. As part of the project, the company will install 50 nesting platforms for storks across the Kyiv region in September and October. Thus, the company will protect birds from electric shock and minimize the risks of emergency outages for customers which can occur when a nest falls into the power line.
“DTEK is transforming its business in accordance with the New Strategy 2030, which is based on ESG principles, values and business responsibility for progress in achieving the sustainable development goals of the UN Global Compact. Why there is a need to install special nesting structures? The thing is that storks build their nests on electrical poles quite often. Nests weighing up to 500 kg pose a threat to both birds and a stable power supply to customers. In 2021, within the framework of the #EnergyWings project, we will install 50 pieces of nesting platforms for storks across the Kyiv region within one month, which is the biggest ever number. The company's energy workers have already identified the locations and are preparing structures for installation,” says Vitalii Shayda, Director General at DTEK Kyiv Regional Grids.
Artificial nesting platforms for storks are solid baskets made of metal rods. They are attached to the electrical poles above the cable level. This design prevents the heavy nest from sliding down onto the line. It protects the nest from collapse, birds from electric shock, and lines from short circuits and unscheduled outages.
Earlier, DTEK Kyiv Regional Grids has already installed 41 nesting platforms for storks in the Kyiv region. Thanks to this initiative, the company protected about 200 birds from death listed in the Berne Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats.
In addition, this year DTEK Kyiv Regional Grids has expanded its bird safety program. So, the energy workers began to install casings for insulators and wires. These polymer protective casings prevent birds from touching live parts. They are lightweight, durable, weatherproof, their service life is up to 40 years.
Short video on how the energy workers make the nesting platforms for storks can be found here.