Energy company saves swans and power supplies

EDF Energy Networks engineers will be working in the fields of Cambridgeshire in a double bid to help save the lives of swans and prevent power interruptions to customers.

Following a number of swan strikes earlier this year, the energy company is planning to carry out a £3,000 project which will see brightly coloured ‘bird diverters’ installed on a kilometre of overhead power lines between Earith Bridge and Haddenham near Ely.

Because swans have very poor sight, they cannot always see overhead lines and risk being killed or injured by flying into them. This can also cause power interruptions to customers in the area, particularly if the lines are damaged or brought down.

EDF Energy Networks has an established reporting system in place to record reports of swans hitting overhead lines in the East of England, London and the South East. The information collected is used to identify changes in flight patterns and roosting grounds that could put birds at risk.

Meanwhile the company also works closely with The Swan Sanctuary, in Surrey, to ensure all reports are investigated and where possible, action is taken to protect birds from overhead power lines.

The work at Haddenham is due to take place on May 5. In order for engineers to work on the overhead lines in safety, power will be temporarily isolated to about 30 customers. All customers affected by the work are being notified in advance.

EDF Energy Networks field engineer Michael Seamark, who will lead the work, said: “During certain times of year when the fields get flooded the swans may move to different areas and could fly into our wires.

“We have big orange discs called bird diverters which we install on the lines. The birds can see these a lot easier so can then avoid the lines.

“There is a cost involved but it’s worth it if it saves birds being injured and avoids our lines being brought down causing power interruptions for customers.”

Dot Beeson, founder of The Swan Sanctuary said: “The fact that EDF Energy Networks responds very quickly to reports is such a bonus for us. If people are worried about a particular area or if they ever find that the overhead electricity lines have been hit by a swan they should report it to the company - unless it is reported there is nothing they can do about it.”

Anyone who spots an injured swan should contact The Swan Sanctuary on 01932 240790, providing as much information as possible about the condition of the bird and its exact location.

Alternatively, you can call EDF Energy Networks on 0845 6014516.