If we didn’t carry out tree cutting along the route of our extensive overhead electricity distribution power network, power cuts would be much more common.
Trees getting too close to the network, and coming into contact with lines - if they’re blown down in a storm, for example - is bad for the network, it’s bad for our customers, and it’s an environmental risk in itself.
Finding a solution
So, at Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, we have to find a balance. We have to manage this risk as best we can, and this means harvesting trees where they run close to our lines, but ensuring we do so in a safe and environmentally responsible way.
Whenever possible, we also try to do this without turning the power off, which is also disruptive to our customers.
Instead, we carry out what’s known as Live Line Harvesting.
Considering the environment
Before the work you can see going on in the film above can begin, we carry out a thorough environmental assessment where work is to be carried out. If we find nesting birds for example, we do not continue with planned harvesting at that time. We also look closely for wildlife at ground level. As well as considering local habitats, we also speak to the people who own the land. Their consent for our work is fundamental.
If we have the green light, Live Line Harvesting can begin. The electricity network is by its very nature, not something any living thing wishes to come into contact with. So we have two options. We can switch the section of line we’re working near off, to permit safe working. Or we can find a way to fell trees safely while the line is still live.
That’s where the Harvesters come in. We’ve been using machines like this for almost a decade now. They’re safe, because they mean we need to climb fewer trees, and make less use of chainsaws. They help us lower our emissions too, because if we can work without turning the power off, we don’t need to deploy backup diesel generators to keep our more vulnerable customers connected.
We’re the first electricity network operator in the UK to use this kind of technology. It’s just another way in which Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks is innovating to keep you connected, while also putting safety first.
If you think a career working to keep our network operational is for you, check out our latest vacancies at careers.sse.com/arborist-roles