Project “Safe Sky for Birds in North-East Bulgaria”

Together for harmony between energy and nature
More about the project
Two birds of prey perched on a branch facing each other, one with brown and orange plumage, the other with gray feathers and orange feet.
About the project

What is the initiative?

The project aims to reduce mortality from electric shock and collisions on overhead power lines through the application of modern protective measures and sustainable monitoring.

The project “Safe Sky for Birds in North-East Bulgaria” is a joint initiative of ERP North — the electricity distribution company in North-East Bulgaria, and the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds — partner of BirdLife International in the country. The project aims to prevent unnatural mortality among 16 globally endangered bird species, prioritized under the LIFE program.

Bird of prey soaring in the blue sky near a wooden utility pole with power lines.
BDZP logo

Project partners

The project is implemented in partnership with the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds

Red-tailed hawk perched on a wire, showing its brown and white feathers and hooked beak.
Two birds perched on wires of a wooden utility pole against a cloudy blue sky.
Advantages

Main objectives of the project

Objectives aimed at conservation, safety and harmony between infrastructure and nature
Isolation of 10,200 dangerous electric ladders
Installation of 2,000 visual diverters (reflective markers)
Establishment of a system for monitoring mortality on power lines
Providing 150 safe nesting sites by placing birdhouses
The project will be implemented in the period from 2023 to 2027.
Realization

What activities are carried out?

Practical implementation in three stages — preparation, protection, monitoring and communication.
Preparation and planning
  • Analysis and identification of risk sections on overhead power lines
  • Conducting field surveys
  • Development of technical plans and specifications
  • Creation of a database of changes and mortality
Construction worker wearing a white helmet and orange safety vest walking outdoors holding blueprints.
Worker wearing a blue helmet and safety harness elevated in a bucket lift working on overhead power lines against a clear blue sky.
Infrastructure change and protection
  • Insulation of pillars
  • Placing diverters on power lines - for better bird visibility
  • Installation of birdhouses (nesting boxes)
Monitoring and impact assessment
  • Monitoring the effect on endangered species
  • Assessment of ecosystem and socio-economic benefits
Smiling woman looking through a mounted sightseeing telescope near a body of water with green foliage in the background.
People standing and holding printed brochures while having a discussion.
Communication and objectivity
  • Media coverage and promotion of the project
  • Production of public awareness materials (videos, reports, signs, brochures, posters)
Scope of activity

Influence and results

The project ensures the reliable operation of the power grid, reducing accidents and social problems
1633
Secured ladder
250
The divertor
16
Target bird species
28
Region in North-East Bulgaria
Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Which bird species are targeted?

The project covers 16 species included in Annex I of the Birds Directive, IUCN Red List and protected in Europe.

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How many stairs will be secured?

The plan is for more than 10,000, and in 2024, 1,633 pillars have already been secured.

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What are diverters?

These are visual markers on wires, making it easier for birds to spot them and avoid a collision.

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How is the project funded?

Through the EU LIFE programme — a total budget of around €2,176 million, incl. With the participation of EP North and BSPB. 

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What does monitoring include?

System for monitoring mortality, effects on species, ecosystem and economic benefits.

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Which bird species are targeted

The project covers 16 species included in Annex I of the Birds Directive, IUCN Red List and protected in Europe.

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Egyptian vulture with white feathers, yellow face, and hooked black beak standing on a rock.