Joint nature protection efforts by EirGrid, and ESB Networks recently resulted in the construction of a high-quality artificial bat roost in Co. Galway.

The development of the roost - a shelter where bats live, often in colonies - got underway alongside works at the Oldstreet 400kV substation in Ballynaheskerag, near Portumna in south-east Galway.

During pre-planning ecological surveys, EirGrid's ecological consultants discovered that a farmhouse on the site, which required demolition, was serving as a breeding roost to an estimated 33 common pipistrelle bats.

Bats are protected by law in the Republic of Ireland under the Wildlife Acts 1976 to 2023 (as amended).

In line with EirGrid and ESB Networks' individual nature protection and restoration policies, and in line with best practice bat mitigation guidance, a replacement roost was built before the original roost was interfered with.

EirGrid and ESB Engineering & Major Projects jointly appointed expert bat ecologist Dr. Tina Aughney, to manage all aspects of the work.

According to EirGrid, Dr. Aughney has 25 years' bat survey experience, is a recognised expert on Irish bat populations, and is a founding member of Bat Conservation Ireland.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) granted a derogation licence, to permit demolition of the existing farmhouse, subject to the artificial roost being successfully constructed and occupied.

EirGrid stated: "Follow-up surveys have confirmed that the artificial roost is now occupied by three times the number of bat species which were present in the existing farmhouse.

Lead senior ecologist with EirGrid, Robert Fennelly said: "At EirGrid, we’re working towards the government’s ambition for 80% of our energy to come from renewable sources, while also continuing to deliver a reliable energy supply.

“However, this work must be done in parallel with efforts to protect and more importantly, restore biodiversity, in the face of the Irish Government's Biodiversity Emergency and the EU Nature Restoration imperative.”