[copie] TRAMELEC

The aim of the TRAMELEC project is to assess the ecological potential of France's high and extra-high voltage (HT-THT) electricity transmission network. Managed by RTE, this network of 100,000 km of lines crosses a variety of environments, many of which are protected or of ecological interest. Current knowledge of the role of HT-THT infrastructures on the ecological network is limited and fragmented. Some studies suggest that the rights-of-way beneath the lines could provide favorable habitats for certain species of open environments. However, these studies are few compared with those documenting the role of roadside verges, and none explore the potential of rights-of-way as ecological corridors.

 

The project is structured around three main objectives. The first objective is to assess the contribution of the HT-THT network to the ecological network on a national scale. This includes identifying areas of fragmentation generated by overhead lines and opportunities for reinforcing the terrestrial ecological network through right-of-way management. The second objective is to study the habitat and corridor role of HT-THT rights-of-way through a field case study, comparing the biodiversity present in these rights-of-way with that of the surrounding environment. Finally, the third objective is to create a consortium of land-use planning and research players to develop a larger-scale project in the years to come.

 

The project methodology combines spatial modelling and geomatics approaches to map potential ecological networks and their interactions with HT-THT lines. Naturalist inventories will be carried out to assess the biodiversity present along the lines and in adjacent habitats. Multi-stakeholder consultation will play a crucial role in identifying strategic sectors for the implementation of right-of-way management practices that will strengthen the ecological fabric. Expected results include the publication of scientific papers, the creation of a centralized database of floristic and faunistic observations, and the proposal of concrete measures to improve ecological connectivity across the HT-THT network.