2022

Bird mortality from electrocution also has its economic dimension. Every short circuit that kills a bird causes a power outage for the end users – residential and business customers – and thus also increases the costs and carbon footprint of the electricity distribution company responsible for maintaining the grid.

The higher mortality of birds from electrocution and collision with the conductors of the power distribution grid (20 kV) is the reason why a greater part of the environmental protection efforts is aimed specifically at securing this type of overhead power infrastructure. This is valid both for Bulgaria and on a global scale. Therefore, within this guide, we present the main types of electric poles from the power distribution grid in Bulgaria, the nature of the threat that this grid poses to wild birds, the methods of research and risk assessment, and technical solutions for safeguarding overhead power lines. We also present successful projects for safeguarding power lines hazardous for birds in Bulgaria and Europe, from which good experience can be drawn.