The Problem of Bird Deaths on Power Lines in Russia – Experience in Solving: Historical Path, Achievements and Current Issues

The development of electric grids in Russia, initiated by the GOELRO plan, contributed to industrialisation but led to bird deaths on power transmission lines. This article is devoted to the history of the solution to this problem, the analysis of stages, success factors and obstacles, and current issues of reducing bird mortality. The first stage of electrification with wooden poles was safe for birds. The transition to reinforced concrete supports in the 1950s and the use of grounded steel crossarms with pin insulators in the 1960s caused mass bird deaths due to electric shock. The first attempts to solve the problem in the 1970s with the help of experimental bird protection devices (BPD) were unsuccessful and were banned. In the 1990s and 2000s, several laws were adopted to protect animals, including requirements to equip 6–35 kV power transmission lines with BPD. However, the lack of a damage calculation mechanism and law enforcement practices hindered their implementation. Media publications, scientific research, and the activities of environmentalists played an essential role in drawing attention to the problem. Large-scale bird mortality studies were conducted, recommendations were developed, and resolutions were adopted at conferences. The activity of environmentalists led to inspections of power transmission lines and prosecutors’ orders to eliminate violations. In 2008, a state methodology for calculating damage was approved. As a result, large companies began to allocate funds to install BPDs. In 2017, PJSC Rosseti developed a standard for the use of BPDs. Despite the successes achieved, unresolved issues remain: designing safe power transmission lines, introducing new technologies, reconstructing existing power transmission lines using insulated wires and suspension insulators, increasing the service life of BPDs, and banning dangerous structures. The history of the fight against bird deaths on power transmission lines in Russia demonstrates the importance of cooperation between the state, energy workers, scientists, and the public to preserve biodiversity.