In 2022, RWE initiated a biodiversity restoration programme, to enhance the wellbeing of pollinators across four wind farms in the UK and Ireland. Acknowledging the critical role that pollinators play in sustaining our food supply, this ambitious project goes beyond just aiding bees; it extends support to a range of insects including moths, butterflies, and hoverflies. One of the project's key strategies involves a simple yet effective approach: allowing native grasses to flourish and bloom during the peak months of July and August. This method provides a crucial late-summer food source for these tiny critters, a resource that traditional mowing practices would typically eliminate.

Kristen from RWE shares her insights into the collaborative efforts underpinning this initiative. "In England and Wales, we've joined forces with the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. Meanwhile, in Scotland, our collaboration with the Butterfly Conservation Trust is going strong, and we're currently laying the groundwork for a similar partnership in Ireland.”

In Scotland, the focus includes conducting research on a rare moth species dependent on the Bearberry plant. By fostering Bearberry's proliferation, RWE aims to bolster not only the moth's food supply but also support the broader ecosystem.

The project's impact is already visible at Little Cheyne Court Wind Farm in Kent, the English pilot site. Here, the Bumblebee Conservation Trust has worked closely with Site Manager, Chris Todd, to enhance habitat conditions, thereby increasing food availability for bumblebees. 

Kristen reports, "These concerted efforts have led to the detection of three of the UK’s rarest bumblebee species right here at our site!”

These projects are supported by a number of talented people, exemplifying theirs, and RWE's commitment to environmental stewardship, showcasing how targeted, collaborative efforts can make a significant difference in preserving and enhancing biodiversity within and around renewable energy sites.