The Opportunity
The objective of this Opportunity is to shortlist the submissions that best answer the brief, with the aim of attending a presentation day with the EIC Industry Partners, where it can be discussed in greater detail with a technical panel. The EIC welcomes submissions from individual companies or companies working in collaboration with each
other.
What is the problem
The distribution network operators (DNOs) are responsible for managing an extensive overhead line (OHL) network in the UK, ensuring the reliable and safe distribution of electricity to homes and businesses. This network is comprised of wooden utility poles, electrical assets such as transformers and conductors (electrical cables). These cables span numerous kilometres and often run over customer properties or
possessions such as:
- Cars
- Driveways
- Conservatories.
Birds use the OHL network as a place to rest, resulting in mess being left on properties and possessions below. This leads to customer complaints, particularly in residential areas. UK Power Networks (UKPN) have previously trialled solid plastic bird diverter spikes (eg those installed on windowsills), however these rotate over time and were deemed ineffective. Cable ties are currently the only viable option to attempt to alleviate this issue, as they flex both in the wind and during ice build-up on conductors. Unfortunately, cable ties degrade over time due to adverse weather causing them to rotate and become ineffective, requiring a costly replacement process.
Preferred Output
UKPN is seeking market-ready or high technology readiness level (TRL) solutions, but are open to funding a development project that will prevent birds from resting on their electricity cables in residential areas. The solution must be:
- Lightweight to avoid further sagging of the wires
- Weather-resistant and UV-resistant, with a lifespan of at least ten years
- Capable of preventing snow buildup that could damage the conductor
- Compatible with a range of aerial bunched cables (ABC) sizes, up to 55 mm in overall diameter
- Easy to install without disconnecting the customer’s supply
- Simple to attach
- Flexible enough to move with the conductors as they sway in the wind.