Birds such as raptors commonly use utility poles for perching, roosting and hunting.  Electrocutions typically occur on voltages less than 69 kV (69,000 volts) where separation between the wires is minimal. Electrocutions result in the death of the bird and often cause a power outage. Substations located in favourable habitats can attract birds such as ravens for perching and roosting. Electrocutions typically occur on the low, 25 kV side of the substation where there are minimal clearances. Electrocutions in substations result in the death of the bird and often cause a power outage with the potential to affect many customers.

AltaLink has completed a risk assessment of its system to determine if electrocutions on poles are an issue. Because AltaLink does not operate low voltage poles, the risk for electrocution is extremely low. For substations, AltaLink utilizes custom GREENJACKET™ fitted cover-ups to prevent momentary contacts between birds and energized electrical equipment.

Q. What causes birds to get electrocuted?
A. Birds commonly use transmission towers and substations for perching, roosting and hunting. Birds could be at electrocution risk on smaller distribution poles and in substations where the electric phases are closer together, rather than on larger transmission structures where they are further apart. A bird is at electrocution risk if it contacts two energized components or an energized component and a grounded component.

Q. What does AltaLink do to prevent bird electrocution?
A. Since AltaLink does not operate distribution voltage power lines, pole electrocutions are rare. However, electrocutions can occur on lower voltage lines and in substations. To prevent this from happening AltaLink uses a variety of methods including cover-ups and anti-perch devices.

AltaLink builds all new substations with the GreenJacket cover-up product which provides a barrier between birds and energized electrical equipment. As well, AltaLink is retrofitting high-risk substations with this product which is particularly important to protect birds and ensure a reliable electricity system. AltaLink is the first company to use this product and was instrumental in the development and testing of the product.