Español
Within the framework of an environmental assessment study for the implementation of a photovoltaic plant in the province of Alicante, an annual cycle survey of avifauna, bats and key species is carried out in order to identify the species present in the area, assess the impacts on them and propose moderating and corrective measures to ensure the viability of their populations.
Project scope
The fieldwork and assessment activities included:
- Annual monitoring campaigns of birds and bats, covering breeding, migration, and wintering periods.
- Inventory of terrestrial fauna and key species, with emphasis on those under regional or national protection.
- Evaluation of potential ecological impacts during the construction and operational phases of the project.
- Proposal of mitigation and compensation measures to minimize disturbance and protect critical habitats.
Methodology
EHS Techniques employed a comprehensive ecological assessment methodology aligned with Spanish and EU environmental requirements.
- Baseline ecological characterization
- Seasonal surveys of avifauna and bat species using visual observation, acoustic detection (ultrasound recorders), and GIS habitat mapping.
- Identification of ecological corridors and breeding or foraging areas of interest.
- Impact analysis
- Evaluation of potential impacts related to habitat alteration, noise, artificial lighting, and collision risks.
- Integration of field data with environmental modelling tools to quantify potential biodiversity impacts.
- Mitigation and management planning
- Design of site-specific corrective and compensatory measures, such as habitat restoration and ecological monitoring programs.
- Recommendations for adaptive management throughout the project’s life cycle.
Results and added value
The EIA ecological component developed by EHS Techniques delivered:
- A comprehensive inventory of birds, bats, and key terrestrial fauna within the project’s influence area.
- Identification of species and habitats requiring special protection according to regional, national, and EU conservation frameworks.
- A robust set of mitigation and monitoring measures, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and facilitating project approval.
This work provided the project developer with the necessary technical documentation for environmental permitting and reinforced the project’s alignment with biodiversity conservation and sustainable energy objectives.
Closing statement
Through this project, EHS Techniques consolidates its experience in ecological monitoring, wildlife impact assessment, and EIA support for renewable energy developments, contributing to the advancement of a sustainable and biodiversity-responsible energy transition.