County power firm unveiled plans for the future

A Leicestershire-based firm has unveiled ambitious commitments to deliver greater environmental sustainability and biodiversity for its customers.

Western Power Distribution (WPD), the electricity distribution company for the region, has pledged the improvements in a bid to redress a historic decline in native species and achieve a 10% net gain in plant, insect and animal life at its major new project sites and selected primary and grid substation sites.

Andy Martyr-Icke, from WPD’s Environment Team, said: “Improving biodiversity will enable WPD to have a positive impact on its surroundings and will benefit customers by enhancing community wellbeing and overall air quality.

“As a company we understand we have a major part to play in environmental sustainability in Leicestershire. Our future plans are not just about minimising the environmental impact of our operations but also having a positive effect and achieving a net gain in biodiversity at our major sites.

“Electricity substations, for example, have historically been deserts for nature because of the justifiable need to protect equipment and assets. But we are looking to be more creative, by using wild grasses and shrubs that are attractive to pollinators, rather than gravel or concrete. We will work with design and engineering colleagues to make sure the safety and efficiency of our network is unaffected while increasing biodiversity efforts.”

Andy and WPD’s Environment Team will also be working with external partners such as Wildlife Trusts, Natural England, ecologists and other specialists to develop best practice to boost flora and fauna as well as using metrics developed by Defra to assess progress and measure environmental impact at its sites.

For more information about WPD’s business plan commitments visit: www. westernpower.co.uk/ businessplan