Ten measures make transformer substations more nature-inclusive |
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Targeted choices support grid operators and municipalities
Grid operators can make low-voltage substations more nature-inclusive more quickly and easily by applying a fixed set of ten measures. Witteveen+Bos Raadgevend Ingenieurs compiled the list on behalf of Collectief NatuurInclusief. The selection is intended to support standardisation and faster decision-making, and to provide municipalities with guidance in area development.
| Image for illustration purposes, generated with AI |
According to the authors, the combined impact of all low-voltage substations could be significant. The factsheet states: "Through ecological management, reduced mowing and the avoidance of chemical agents, vegetation is given room to flourish and biodiversity increases around and on the substation."
From broad exploration to practical shortlist
The ten measures result from an exploration of nature-inclusive options for transformer and low-voltage substations in urban areas. First, a longlist was drawn up and assessed for ecological and social impact, feasibility and costs. For the ecological score, biodiversity ratings from the Infranature poster by Naturalis were used, supplemented by expert judgement.
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"Through ecological management, reduced mowing and the avoidance of chemical agents, vegetation is given room to flourish and biodiversity increases around and on the substation"
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Practical feasibility was tested with asset managers from Stedin, Enexis and Alliander. Management, maintenance, safety and legal risks, including protected species, were taken into account. The note points out that the latter can limit feasibility, for example in the case of bats.
 | | Factsheet nature-inclusive transformer substations Witteveen+Bos |
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The 10 measures
| 1. | | Ecological management (less mowing/pruning, no chemical agents)
| | 2. | | Insect oasis (dead wood, stones and sand piles/nesting mounds at ground level and/or on the roof)
| | 3. | | Shrub mix (varied native shrubs around the substation, where space allows)
| | 4. | | Species-rich grassland (native grasses and herbs for insects, preferably regionally sourced)
| | 5. | | Permeable paving (e.g. gravel, crushed stone or grass tiles instead of sealed paving)
| | 6. | | Insect wall (nesting/shelter facilities for insects on the façade, such as a wall element or hotel)
| | 7. | | Sedum roof (extensive green roof)
| | 8. | | Nature roof (intensive green roof with native flowers/herbs, possibly with water storage)
| | 9. | | Façade garden (ground-based climbing plants with support structure, not near doors/grilles)
| | 10. | | Green façade (building envelope that allows wall plants/mosses/lichens to grow, using suitable materials)
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Three types of measures
The shortlist distinguishes between three categories. The first includes measures that grid operators can implement themselves, such as ecological management, species-rich grassland and native shrubs. The second category requires adjustments to the building or roof, such as sedum or nature roofs and green façades. The third category concerns cooperation with municipalities, for example when linking opportunities in public space.
Support for coordination in public space
The measures are intended as a discussion tool for grid operators, municipalities and contractors. The note emphasises that low-voltage substations mainly play a supporting role within a broader, integrated area-based approach. According to the authors, active policy on nature-inclusive substations can contribute to public support and faster realisation of new stations.
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Practical feasibility was assessed, taking into account management, maintenance, safety and legal risks, including protected species
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This article was previously published on 17 February 2026 on the website](https://www.stad-en-groen.nl/article/53062/tien-ingrepen-maken-transformatorhuisjes-sneller-natuurinclusief]website) of Stad + Groen.
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