TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT
CONSTRUCTION PHASE
Impact
Habitat Loss
Terrestrial habitat loss due to power lines is caused by the clearance of areas along
the route of the line. The impact is greatest in the case of natural forest or savannah
because these vegetation types must be kept clear to avoid the impact of fire from
the tall vegetation on the operation of the lines. The impact on grassland is lower
because grassland can grow beneath the powerlines without presenting a risk of
impact from fire.
Habitat Degradation
Is caused primarily by the disturbance of natural systems required to lay power lines
i.e. the access routes that require the removal of vegetation to access the route.
The habitat is impacted during construction due to erosion and increased infestation
by alien invasive plant species. This reduces the state/quality of the surrounding
vegetation.
Pollution
In the form of solid waste (litter, construction materials). Spills of hazardous
substances, of which fuel and oils are a common issue.
Mitigation

Avoid routes through forest as far as
possible.

Reduce the footprint of construction
activities.
Establish a rehabilitation plan that informs
how soil and plant material is
handled/stockpiled in the construction
phase, so that is replaced in a sequence
that will aid natural restoration.
Construction phase waste management
plan with regular collection and disposal at
appropriate sites.
Bunding of fuel storage and filling sites, and
other facilities.
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OPERATIONAL PHASE
Impact
Mitigation
Habitat Degradation
Regular maintenance and monitoring of power lines is required. This involves large
vehicles moving through natural vegetation which may case erosion (especially on
steep slopes and erodible soils).

Use existing roads where possible and
establish formal roads or supporting
materials to avoid erosion of steep and
sensitive areas.
Animal Impacts
Power line collisions are one of the most significant threats to large bird species
such as cranes, vultures and other large raptors.

Use of various types of reflectors and other
devices developed by Eskom over time to
make power lines more visible.
Route power lines away from known flight
paths, nest sites and large water bodies,
estuaries etc in the case of water birds.
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