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Eskom in the Eastern Cape says it has completed the refurbishment of an electrical power line in the Khowa area which seeks, among others, to prevent bird mortalities.
The power utility said the refurbishment of the 40-year-old 22kV Elliot Witkrans power line between Khowa (formerly Elliot) and Barkly East began in January and was completed in the last week of June.
Eskom said in recent years, the town of Khowa had seen an unusual rise in bird electrocutions which was a cause for concern.
In response to addressing the situation, a line refurbishment project was proactively initiated by Eskom Cape Coastal Cluster.
A new 20km line was built and was strengthened for snow challenges in the area as well," said Cape Coastal Cluster General Manager, Mbulelo Yedwa.
"The line refurbishment project included the installation of owl devices which aim to reduce the number of bird mortalities.
Furthermore, the first section of the power line from the substation to Barkly Pass was strengthened and boasts double H-pole suspension structures, shorter spans, and Hare conductors".
Yedwa said the line was designed to be bird-friendly right from the outset, adding that a section of the line frequented at night by birds, the use of nocturnal bird flight diverters was implemented.
"This is the first device of this nature that has been installed by Elliot CNC.
This is a significant achievement for the employees of Elliot CNC and demonstrates their commitment to achieving Zero Harm to the environment," he added.
Eskom said the Endangered Wildlife Trust, which has been a respected stakeholder since 1996, commended the Elliot CNC for "being vigilant ambassadors in preserving the environment."
"The partnership was established to reduce the threat to wildlife and protect Eskom’s electrical infrastructure."
