Better consideration of biodiversity in vegetation management contracts

RTE aims to reduce the environmental impact of its vegetation management practices by ceasing certain activities during sensitive periods from March to August by 2029. This initiative includes revising contract methodologies, implementing fair compensation systems, and providing supplier support to align business models with new ecological objectives.

Highlights

• By 2029, 2,300 hectares of land will no longer be subject to mechanical clearing during the nesting period, preserving biodiversity.
• 95% of suppliers consulted supported RTE’s approach, and 74% proposed additional measures to further reduce environmental impacts.
• A new remuneration system has been introduced to compensate suppliers fairly for reduced work volumes, maintaining financial stability.

About this Practice

RTE, French electricity transmission system operator, has undertaken a significant reform of its vegetation management contracts to align with its commitment to biodiversity preservation. This strategic shift aims to stop all mechanical clearing activities, such as flail mowing, during the crucial nesting season (16 March to 15 August) by 2029. The revised methodology divides annual work into three phases, including a constrained phase during the nesting period. The goal is to limit mechanical interventions in sensitive zones, thereby contributing to the conservation of local ecosystems. 

Key innovations include the introduction of a “fair” remuneration mechanism to mitigate the financial impact on suppliers due to reduced activities in the spring season. This system adjusts compensation based on the extent of disruption, ensuring that very small enterprises (VSEs) and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) remain financially viable. 

To support these changes, RTE has engaged its supplier panel through a collaborative consultation process, resulting in 95% of suppliers endorsing the new approach. The majority have also committed to implementing additional environmentally friendly measures, such as adopting electric equipment and biodegradable lubricants.

With an annual budget of €40-50 million and over 100 qualified suppliers, RTE’s comprehensive contract overhaul represents a landmark in balancing operational efficiency with ecological responsibility. This practice, though challenging, sets a precedent for sustainable land management in utility operations and is a replicable model for other regions and industries.