The European Union's CARDS Programme for the Western Balkans

Western Balkans Infrastructure Projects Facility

TA1-MKD-ENE-01

Environmental Impact Assessment of the 400 kV Overhead Transmission Line SS Stip (Macedonia) – SS Nis (Serbia) Section: SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

The European Union's CARDS Programme for the Western Balkans

Western Balkans Infrastructure Projects Facility

T

Environmental Impact Assessment of the 400 kV Overhead Transmission Line SS Stip (Macedonia) – SS Nis (Serbia) Section: SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

The project is financed by the EU

The project is implemented by WYG International

Report Issue Record

Project Title:

Infrastructure Projects Facility for Western Balkans

Project Number: TA1-MKD-ENE-01

Report Title:

Environmental Impact Assessment 400kV OHL SS Stip (Macedonia) – SS Nis (Serbia) Section: SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Issue Number:

1

Revision Date

1 04-03-2010

Detail Prepared by

EIA expert team

Checked by

Konstantin. Siderovski

Approved by

Martyn Osborn

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Contents

PART A - Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV Overhead Transmission Line SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border .................................................................... 6

Acronyms

............................................................................................................................ 7

Non – Technical Summary ....................................................................................................... 8 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 22 Responsible Expert and Team of Experts for Preparation of the Study............................. 23 Rationale .......................................................................................................................... 25 Relevant Legislation for Environmental Impact Assessment ............................................. 27 The Process of Environmental Impact Assessment in Macedonia .................................... 29 Methodology and Approach during the Preparation of the EIA.......................................... 30 1

Alternatives Concerned .................................................................................................. 35 1.1 Introduction............................................................................................................. 35 1.2 Starting and End Point of the Transmission Line.................................................... 36 1.3 Alternative 1 of the Transmission Line Route ......................................................... 36 1.4 Alternative 2 of the Transmission Line Route ......................................................... 37 1.5 Selection of Optimal Corridor for the Route of the Transmission Line.................... 37 1.6 Zero Alternative (Do Nothing Alternative) ............................................................... 40

2

Description and Characteristics of the Project................................................................ 41 2.1 Existing Power Transmission Grid in Macedonia ................................................... 41 2.2 Scope and Project Life Cycle ................................................................................. 42 2.3 Technical Characteristics of the Transmission Line ............................................... 42 2.3.1 Towers ............................................................................................................ 43 2.3.2 Foundations .................................................................................................... 45 2.3.3 Grounding ....................................................................................................... 45 2.3.4 Phase Conductors .......................................................................................... 45 2.3.5 Protective Wires.............................................................................................. 45 2.3.6 Insulators ........................................................................................................ 46 2.4 Construction Works ................................................................................................ 46 2.5 Starting with Operation ........................................................................................... 49 2.6 Operation and Maintenance ................................................................................... 49 2.7 Termination of Operations or Replacement of Equipment...................................... 49

3

Description of the Living and Social Environment .......................................................... 50 3.1 Geographical Position and Relief of the Route Area .............................................. 51 3.2 Climate Conditions in the Area ............................................................................... 53 3.3 Geology of the Area................................................................................................ 55 3.3.1 Geological Characteristics of the Area ........................................................... 55 3.3.2 Hydrogeological Characteristics of the Area................................................... 56 3.3.3 Engineering - Geological Characteristics of the Area ..................................... 60 3.3.4 Contemporary and Registered Engineering - Geological Appearances and Processes ....................................................................................................... 62 3.4 Tectonics and Seismics of the Area ....................................................................... 64 3.4.1 Tectonic Conditions in the Area ...................................................................... 64 3.4.2 Neotectonic Regions....................................................................................... 68 3.4.3 Seismic Conditions in the Area....................................................................... 70 3.5 Hydrography and Quality of Surface Waters in the Area........................................ 73 3.6 Air Quality in the Area............................................................................................. 77 3.7 Noise in the Environment of the Area ..................................................................... 79

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

3.8 Ecological Components, Biodiversity and Conservation Status ............................. 81 3.8.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................... 81 3.8.2 Biomes............................................................................................................ 81 3.8.3 Habitats, Flora and Fauna .............................................................................. 82 3.8.3.1 Biomes of Pontoon-Caspian Steppes and Forest-Steppes (PCS).............. 82 3.8.3.2 Biome of Mediterranean semi Deserts (МSD) ............................................ 84 3.8.3.3 Biome of Submediteranean – Balcans Forests (SBF) ................................ 87 3.9 Population, Settlements, Economic and Social Parameters................................... 89 3.10 Use and Categorization of Land around the Route of the Transmission Line ........ 92 3.11 Existing and Planned Infrastructure on the Route of the Transmission Line .......... 93 3.12 Natural Heritage ..................................................................................................... 96 3.13 Cultural Heritiage .................................................................................................... 97 4

Environmental Impacts from Project Implementation ..................................................... 98 4.1 Safety Aspects........................................................................................................ 99 4.1.1 Safety from Electrical Hazards ....................................................................... 99 4.1.2 Electric and Magnetic Fields........................................................................... 99 4.1.3 Risk of Fire.................................................................................................... 101 4.1.4 Vibrations of the Transmission Line.............................................................. 101 4.1.5 Safety Aspects from Geological Hazards ..................................................... 102 4.2 Impacts on Biological Diversity ............................................................................. 103 4.3 Impacts on Geology and Soils .............................................................................. 106 4.4 Impacts on Air quality and Climate ....................................................................... 108 4.5 Impact on Quality of Surface Waters .................................................................... 109 4.6 Impacts from Noise............................................................................................... 110 4.7 Solid Waste Management .................................................................................... 112 4.8 Property Aspects and Impacts on Incomes .......................................................... 114 4.9 Visual Aspects ...................................................................................................... 115 4.10 Impacts on Natural Heritage ................................................................................. 116 4.11 Impacts on Cultural Heritage ................................................................................ 117 4.12 Cumulative Impacts .............................................................................................. 118 4.13 Matrix of Environmental Impacts .......................................................................... 119

5

Mitigation Measures ..................................................................................................... 122 5.1 Mitigation Measures for Electro-magnetic Fields.................................................. 123 5.2 Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact on the Biodiversity ........................ 124 5.3 Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact on the Geology and Soils ............. 129 5.4 Mitigation Mesures for Reducing the Impact on the Air Quality............................ 131 5.5 Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact on the Quality of Surface Waters . 132 5.6 Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact from Noise .................................... 133 5.7 Mitigation Measures for Sustainable Waste Management ................................... 134 5.8 Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact on the Cultural Heritage ............... 135 5.9 Overview of the Mitigation Measures.................................................................... 136

6 A. B. 7

Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan........................................................ 140 Mitigation Plan ...................................................................................................... 141 Monitoring Plan..................................................................................................... 145

Project Justification and Conlcusion............................................................................. 148 7.1 Introduction........................................................................................................... 148 7.2 Sustainable Development..................................................................................... 148 7.3 Environmental Impact Assessment ...................................................................... 149 7.4 Conclusion............................................................................................................ 152

References and Used Literature .......................................................................................... 153

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

PART B - Annexes Annex 1 – Decision for determining the need for environmental impact assessment and its scope Annex 2 – Geographical review of referent points along the route of interconnective 400 kV transmission line SS Stip - Macedonian - Serbian border Annex 3 – Sectoral study for biological diversity impact assessment Annex 4 – Overview of plant species along the corridor of the route of the interconnection 400 kV transmission line SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian border Annex 5 – Thematic maps Annex 5.1 – Land use Annex 5.2 – Geological maps Annex 5.3 – Biological Diversity Annex 6 – Public announcement and public hearing Annex 6.1 – Non – technical Summary Annex 6.2 – Presentation on public hearing Annex 6.3 – Presentation on public hearing for Biological Diversity Annex 6.4 – Public announcement and public hearing

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

PART A - Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV Overhead Transmission Line SS Stip – MacedonianSerbian Border

6

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Acronyms

ASP

Agency for Spatial Planning

EA

Environmental Assessment

EIA

Environmental Impact Assessment

EMF

Electromagnetic Fields

EU

European Union

ICNIRP

International Commission for Non-Ionic Radiation Protection

IUCN

International Union for Conservation of Nature

masl

metres above the sea level

MEPSO

Macedonian Power Transmission System Operator

MN

Monument of Nature

MEPP

Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning

OHL

Overhead Line

PA

protected area

RM

Republic of Macedonia

RP

reference point (along the transmission line)

SEE

Southeast Europe

SS

Substation (Transformer)

UCTE

Union for Coordination of Transmission of Electricity

UTM

Universal Transversal Mercator (coordinative system)

WB

World Bank

7

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Non – Technical Summary

8

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Introduction This environmental impact assessment study supports the process of planning and implementation of an interconnection project for a 400 kV transmission line between the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Serbia. The study covers the part of the planned transmission line planned on the tetriritory of the Republic of Macedonia, from an exisiting 400 kV transmission substation SS 400/110kV Stip to the connection point at the Macedonian-Serbian border. The Macedonian Power Transmission System Operator – MEPSO is the proposing party of this project and its investor, The World Bank, has requested the EIA in respect of its commitment to potentially provide financing for the implementation of this project. This planned internconnection of the power grids of the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Serbia will significantly improve the quality and flexibility of the power supply in the region, improving security of supply and power trading potential in the region. This EIA study was prepared by team of consultants of WYG International, under the Infrastruture Project Facility for Western Balkans, financed by the European Commission. The study is in compliance with the requirements of the Macedonian legislation concerning the EIA and the guidelines contained in the Report for Defining the Scope and Contents of the EIA, submitted to MEPSO by the MEPP. Purpose of the the EIA This EIA study is to serve as main input for project permitting process by the competent Macedonian regulatory authorities and environmental appraisal by the World Bank for funding decision. Additionally, this study identifies more specific obligations concerning the environment relevant to the engineering (designing), tender and construction documents for the construction of the line, as well as for the documents for operation and maintenance of the transmission line. This will enable the design, construction and operation of the transmission line to be realised in the manner compliant to the standards for environment protection. National EIA Requirements Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of certain projects is required to be carried out in Macedonia in accordance with Articles 76-94 of the Macedonian Law on the Environment. This law and the associated secondary legislation set out the requirements for undertaking environmental assessments of potential environmental impacts of public and private projects which are likely to have a significant impact on the environment before development consent / construction permit is granted in the form of approval for project implementation. Impacts on the environment can include impacts on human beings and biological diversity; soil, water, air and other natural resources and climate; historical and cultural heritage as well as the interaction between these elements. Hence, it is required that before development consent is granted for certain types of projects, an EIA has to be carried out. The EIA process is meant to anticipate potential environmental harm and to avoid or mitigate such harm while balancing environmental, social and economic objectives. The Macedonian Ministry for Environment and Physical Planning (MEPP) is a national competent authority for the EIA procedure.

9

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

The types of projects that require an EIA are determined in the “Decree for Determining Projects for which and criteria on the basis of which the screening for an environmental impact assessment shall be carried out“. This Decree was published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Macedonia No. 74 on 5 September 2005. Under the Decree projects are classified in two groups: projects listed in Annex I are all subject to compulsory EIA while for projects in Annex II, the assessment contains and element of discretion, noting that an EIA procedure will, in any event, be required for projects with potentially significant environmental impacts. The project proposal for construction and operation of the 400 kV cross-border overhead transmission line between Macedonia and Serbia is included in the above Decree, in Annex I, item 17 – Installing transmission lines and other power facilities of 110 kV voltage or higher, and longer than 15 km. As such, the project is subject to EIA procedure. MEPSO submitted to the MEPP a notification of intention for implementation of the project as well as an EIA scoping document. The MEPP has determined the scope of the EIA and on 1 June 2009 submitted to the MEPSO an EIA scoping decision. Consequently, an EIA was undertaken for the project in accordance with EU, IFI and Macedonian requirements. The main findings of the EIA process are summarized in this report. World Bank Context The World Bank requires environmental assessment (EA) of projects proposed for financing to help ensure that they are environmentally sound and sustainable, and thus to improve decision making. EA is a process whose breadth, depth, and type of analysis depend on the nature, scale, and potential environmental impact of the proposed project. EA evaluates a project's potential environmental risks and impacts in its area of influence; examines project alternatives; identifies ways of improving project selection, sitting, planning, design, and implementation by preventing, minimizing, mitigating, or compensating for adverse environmental impacts and enhancing positive impacts; and includes the process of mitigating and managing adverse environmental impacts throughout project implementation. EA is initiated as early as possible in project processing and is integrated closely with the economic, financial, institutional, social, and technical analyses of a proposed project. The borrower is responsible for carrying out the EA. The World Bank advises the borrower on the EA requirements. The World Bank reviews the findings and recommendations of the EA to determine whether they provide an adequate basis for processing the project for financing. When the borrower has completed or partially completed EA work prior to the WB’s involvement in a project, the World Bank reviews the EA to ensure its consistency with this policy. The World Bank may, if appropriate, require additional EA work, including public consultation and disclosure. (i) Environmental Screening and Determining the Level of EA The World Bank classifies the proposed project into one of four categories, depending on the type, location, sensitivity, and scale of the project and the nature and magnitude of its potential environmental impacts:

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

(a) Category A: A proposed project is classified as Category A if it is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are sensitive, adverse, or unprecedented. These impacts may affect an area broader than the sites or facilities subject to physical works. EA for a Category A project examines the project's potential negative and positive environmental impacts, compares them with those of feasible alternatives (including the "without project" situation), and recommends any measures needed to prevent, minimize, mitigate, or compensate for adverse impacts and improve environmental performance. For a Category A project, the borrower is responsible for preparing a report, normally an EIA. (b) Category B: A proposed project is classified as Category B if its potential adverse environmental impacts on human populations or environmentally important areas and other natural habitats, are less adverse than those of Category A projects. These impacts are site-specific; few if any of them are irreversible; and in most cases mitigation measures can be designed more readily than for Category A projects. (c) Category C: A proposed project is classified as Category C if it is likely to have minimal or no adverse environmental impacts. Beyond screening, no further EA action is required for a Category C project. (d) Category FI: A proposed project is classified as Category FI if it involves investment of World Bank funds through a financial intermediary, in subprojects that may result in adverse environmental impacts. While the project for the 400 kV overhead transmission line SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian border falls under category B for EA (sector – Electrical Transmission), the level of attention to this EIA approximated that used for Category A projects under World Bank Operational Policy 4.01 (1999). A thorough field survey, physical inspection of the whole transmission line corridor and presentation of the findings in a geo-referenced manner with graphic representations (thematic maps, drawings, schemes) have been conducted. This allowed precise location of environmental information to the layout of the project area and the area of influence. (ii) Public Consultation For all Category A and B projects proposed for financing, during the EA process, the borrower consults project-affected groups and local nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) about the project's environmental aspects and takes their views into account. The borrower initiates such consultations as early as possible and consults with such groups throughout project implementation as necessary to address EA-related issues that affect them. (iii) Disclosure For meaningful consultations between the borrower and project-affected groups and local NGOs on all Category A and B projects proposed for financing, the borrower provides relevant material in a timely manner prior to consultation and in a form and language that are understandable and accessible to the groups being consulted. (iv) Implementation During project implementation, the borrower reports on (a) compliance with measures agreed with the Bank on the basis of the findings and results of the EA, including implementation of any EMP, as set out in the project documents; (b) the status of mitigation measures; and (c) the findings of monitoring programs. The World Bank bases supervision of the project's environmental aspects on the findings and recommendations of the EA, including measures set out in the legal agreements, any EMP, and other project documents. 11

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Description and Characteristics of the Project The planned transmission line will be designed and constructed in compliance with the current Regulation on the Technical Rules for Construction of Overhead Power Lines with Nominal Voltage of 1kV to 400 kV, as well as the current standards, rules and regulations applicable in the Republic of Macedonia The entire life cycle of the project includes the following phases: o

Selection of an adequate corridor for the route of the transmission line This phase has been realised through (i) identifying the potential alternative routes, (ii) assessment of the feasibility thereof and (iii) selection of the most favourable alternative.

o

This phase is underway (being undertaken by an electrical contractor appointed by MEPSO) and includes preparation of relevant planning documentation, including technical and design documentation and analysis of the environment aspects. The planning documentation will be prepared in accordance with the requirements of the current Macedonian and international legislation for these type of facilities.

o

Construction phase. Activities of this phase will include construction activities and installation of the necessary infrastructure and equipment.

o

Operational phase . This project phase will include actual operation of the transmission line, including maintenance and control.

o

Decommisioning and closure of installation. This phase will include measures for recultivation and future use of the area, as well as measures for managing the impact on the environment during the post-project period.

All the components of the interconnection 400kV transmission line SS Stip – MacedonianSerbian broder (towers, foundation, conductors, protective wires and insulators) and their elements will be designed, produced, tested and installed according to the standards of the 400 kV grid in Macedonia. The entire equipment must be designed and constructed in the manner that will ensure safe operation in the ambient conditions that exist in the area where the transmission line is to be built, and under various energy transfers and voltageconditions that might occur during the operaton of the transmission grid. The basic technical parameters of the transmission line are presented in the following table: Table – Review of technical parameters of the 400kV interconnection transmission line Parameter Characteristic Nominal voltage 400 kV Type of towers Steel-bar hot zinc-coated, with horizontally placed conductors, two per phase and two protective wires Foundation Typical solutions, depending on the engineering and geo-mechanical parameters of the ground. Reinforced concrete - brand of concrete acording to the valid regulations. Protection against corrosion of anchor segment, 50 cm above the level of the terrain. Conductor √ Number per phases: 2 √ Material: AlFe √ Section: 490/65 mm2 √ Maximum work strain: According to valid regulations Protective wire Two earth-lead wires in horizontal lowland: • First: Alumoweld hawser with diameter of 126.1 mm2, labeled AWG 19/9 • Second: Protective hawser with optic fiber, OPGW with 48 fibers (Mechanical and electric characteristics will correspond to classic protective hawser) 12

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Insulators

•

•

Earthing of towers

• •

Type of insulator: - On the line: Phase, massive, porcelain insulator of the type 75/21+20=160 or glass hanging insulators U-160 - On the portal: Glass hanging, of the type U-160 Type of insulator chain: According to the regulations Specific resistance of the ground: According to the terrain measurements of specific places and use of typical earthing Material: Circular zinc-coated steel

Dimensions: Minimum diameter ∅10 mm Connective materials for the planned insulators are hot zinc-coated. 2 √ Wind pressure: 75 daN/m 2 √ Burden from ice and snow: 1,6 x 0,18√d daN/m √ External temperature: - Maximum + 40 °С - Minimum - 20 °С At least 1 m higher than the prescribed in the Regulation, ,to take into account conductor fatigue, intensive construction of near-by facilities, use of agricultural machinery, etc. •

Connective equipment Climate parameters

Safety hight

The corridor of the route for the transmission line is in Eastern Macedonia, on the territory of five municipalities: Stip, Karbinci, Sveti Nikole, Kumanovo and Staro Nagorichane. The route runs from the newly planned portal in the existing SS 400/110kV Stip, in the area “Ramnishte” to the area “Jelena Glava” at the Macedonian-Serbian border. The route is approximately 70 km long. According to its morphology, the route of the transmission line passes through several valleys, while part of the route passes through low mountain regions.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Project Alternatives Considered During the preparatory phase of the project, MEPSO prepared several prefeasibility studies and feasibility studies about the interconnection 400 kV transmission line, including a study for selecting the most optimal route thereof. 40

Selected route

В VД 0k

Based on the analysis of proposed variants and the selection process, MEPSO identified the best corridor for the route of the transmission line.

ТС Ш ти ке Ма пдо

A summary of the reveiwed alternative variants for the selection of the best corridor for the route of the transmission line is presented in the adjacent map.

нс ко -С рп ск

II

ја

а

а

иц

ар

нт

Iв

ан

ри

р аг

ва

The corridor of the selected route passes through favourable low mountain terrain, which runs in the direction north - south, avoiding the direct positioning of the transmission line toward the wind blow. The route avoids the fertile areas of the region Ovche Pole and does not pass through environmentally important areas.

иј ан та

ТС 4 00/110 k V Ш тип

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Description of the Environment Climate Conditions The route of the transmission line passes through terrains with different climate conditions. The biggest part of the corridor where the route passes is characterized by moderate continental climate, with micro-climate characteristics in the some areas it passes through, the Ovche Pole and Kumanovo Valleys. The average annual temperature during certain years varies between 10 °С and 14 °С. The coldest month is January with average monthly temperature od 0.4 °С to 1.3 °С. The warmest month is July, with average monthly temperature that varies between 22.3 °С and 23.8 °С. According to the temperature indicators, the conclusion is that the area along the route of the transmission line is characterized by hot summers and moderately cold winters, with occasional extremely high and low temperatures, some considerable temperature variations, and a warmer autumn than spring. During the year, the rainfalls are uneven. The southern part of the corridor is an area with little rainfall (annual quantity – 472 mm), while the northern part - with larger annual quantities of rainfall (average annual quantity – 549 mm). The average annual relative humidity is 67% in the southern part of the corridor and 72% in the northern part. With respect to winds, the north-west wind is the most frequent in the southern part of the route, while the northern wind is more frequent in the northern part. Geological Conditions The majority of the route of the transmission line belongs to the sheets Stip, Veles and Kumanovo of the Basic Geological Map (1 : 100.000). Within the area, several main sediments have been identified: (i) Upper Eocene flysche sediments, represented by basalt series (conglomerates of sandstones and marls), above which there is the lower flysche series and yellow sandstones and on top - the upper flysche series (consisting of carbonates and clastic rocks); (ii) volcanic rocks and sediments in layers among which (various andesites, ignimbrites, tuff sandstones, volcanic breccias); aluvial sediments along some woterflows and by the river Pchinja and (iv) deluvial sediments recognized at certain locations in the subject area. Hydrography and Quality of Surface Waters Wider area of the corridor where the route of the long-distance power linces spreads is part of the territory of two bigger regional river basins: •

The basin of River Bregalnica, with the following rivers: (i) River Sudichka, (ii) Rivers Stanulovska and Burilovska, (iii) River Nemanjica, (iv) Rivers Orelska and Mavrovica, (v) River Madzarica and (vi) the rivulets Boshkov Dol and Drenov Dol. A dam was built on the River Mavrovica, near to Alin Dol, which covers an area of 7 km2 and has a volume of 2.7 million m3. The dam is used for water supply of Sveti Nikole.

•

The basin of River Pchinja, with the following rivers: (i) River Luka, (ii) Vranjak, (iii) Murgashki Brook, (iv) Slatinski Dol, (v) Serava Brook, (vi) Muralovski Dol and (vii) Sejdin Dol.

The pollution of rivers and rivulets on the route of the transmission line comes from the communal waste waters from inhabited places and pollution from stock beeeding and 15

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

agricultural activities. The quality of surface waters in the direct surrounding of the route of the transmission line is not significantly deteriorated by emission of industrial activities. Air Quality The majority of the route corridor runs through rural areas. Bearing this in mind, as well as the fact that no data are available from measurements of air pollution in the immediate area along the route, it can be assumed that the air along the route of the transmission line is of good quality, first of all because of the nature of the area and the distance from the main polutors – industrial facilities and the main traffic infrastructure in the region. Environmental Components and Biological Diversity Along the route of the transmission line a certain number of habitats have been identified, plant communities, plant and animal species. There are more than 250 registered plant taxons (autumn aspect) that are part of various plant communities and habitat types that develop along the route of the transmission line. Among them, there are 3 Macedonian endemic species that are the most valuable from botanical point of view. (i) Salvia jurisicii Koshanin, (ii) Verbascum lesnovoensis Micev and (iii) Onobrychys megalophylia Boiss, as well as two other types that can are listed in the World Red List: (i) (Salvia jurisicii Koshanin and (ii) Alkanna pulmonaria Grisebach). The fauna diversity includes a number of invertebral groups and all vertebra groups (amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals). All species that are listed in the international lists of important species have been defined and identified in this study with the aim of assessing the impact on the environment. Land Use The route of the transmission line passess through a terrain with different purposes, where part of it is used for land cultivation. All inhabited places near the corridor of the transmission line are typical agricultural societies. There are no significant industrial capacities that may interactively impact the planned transmission line.

Impacts on the Environment and Mitigation Measures Electromagnetic Fields EMF are the result of the generation, transfer, distribution and use of electric power. They are present in the environment where there is operational electric equipment. The intensity of the electric field is measured by the unit measure “Volt per metre” (V/m) and it may vary depending on the differences of potentials between the conductors, the land and the near-by objects. The concept of density of flux (magnet induction) is used for describing the magnetic fields. These fields are measured by the unit measure “Tesla” (T). The power of EMF from transmission lines depends on the voltage level of the line and it decreases with the increase of distance from the conductors. The level of limit values for exposure to EMF according to the guidelines of the International Committee for Protection from non-ionic Radiation, which are accepted by the EU, are presented in the table bellow.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Exposure of public electric field 5 kV/m

Industrial exposure electric field 10 kV/m

magnetic field 100 µT

magnetic field 500 µT

The measurements of EMF values to date, by different institutions, for a relatively low safe hight of phase conductor of 10 m above the terrain, determined electric field of 6.7 kV/m and magnetic induction of 42.9μT. Taking into consideration the defined border values of EMP exposure, it may be concluded that this height of phase conductors and even higher are not harmful for the health of people who are temporarily near to a transmission line of 400kV. By carrying out appropriate design and operational measures, MEPSO will provide conditions for eliminating the impact from EMF on people’s health. These measures include: (i) relevant choice of locations for the towers / route in relation to inhabited places, (ii) respecting the technical specifications for minimal heights of conductors and (iii) monitoring and measuring the EMF levels – control of exposure values within the acceptable limits during the operational phase of the transmission line. Habitats, Flora and Fauna By undertaking adequate measures and activties in the phases of design, construction and operation, the transmission line will not cause any serious negative effects on the biotope contents of the area, the natural habitats, flora and fauna. With careful planning of the route of the transmission line, the need for clearing the vegetation, trees and forest layer is reduced to the minimum. Geology and Soils The expected impact of the transmission line on the geological structures and soils during the construction phase would be in the form of degradation and erosion of the soil and deterioration of certain geological formations. The risk from erosion of soil is limited, mainly in the areas where the preparation, assembling and installation of transmission line towers is to be carried out. By applying the good construction practices, the probable impact will be controlled and they are not expected to cause any serious negative effect. Air Quality The probable impact of dust emission into the local air during the construction phase will be reduced through the proposed measures. During the operation of the transmission line, there will be no emission of harmful gases in the surrounding air. Hydrography and Quality of Surface Waters A potential impact on the quality of surface waters may result due to erosion and sedimentation and inappropriate waste management during the construction phase. Measures have been proposed for reducing this potential impact, while their implementation through good construction practices will ensure insignificant effect on the quality of waters.

During the construction of the transmission line, no impact is expected on the subterranean waters, since the consutrction activities anticipate only shallow excavations.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

During the operational phase, the transmission line will not release harmful pollutants in the waters. Noise Emission of noise during the construction phase is inevitable. If we take into consideration the distance of a larger number of individual locations of towers from the inhabited places and the fact that the emission of construction noise is of short-term and discontinual nature, the significant and irreversible impact on the environment and the local population is not expected. By adopting good construction practices, the level of noise will be within the emission limit values. During the operational phase, the transmission line will not release harmful noise in the nearby surrounding and the environment. In this phase, there is a possibility for occurrence of upsetting noise due to the corona effect, i.e. electric discharge around the conducting cables. The corona effect is a common phenomenon, related to all power transmission lines. The noise from the corona effect is directly dependent on certain physical parameters of the environment, especially the presence of forest area, the morphology of the terrain, etc. The corona effect in cases of transmission lines has been analyzed in detail during the past couple of decades and completely resolved as a problem. During the design of transmission lines, measures are incorporated for minimizing this effect, especially for high voltage lines that exceed 300 kV. Adequate choice of dimensions of the conductors for the transmission line will reduce the localized electric impact on the air at the surface of the conductor and will additionally reduce the surface gradient thereof to the level that will cause small and insignificant corona activities. Property Aspects and Impact on the Revenues Bearing in mind that (i) the largest part of the route of the interconnection 400 kV transmission line passes along the existing borders of agricultural blocks, (ii) the distance between two neighbouring towers is quite big (approximately 400 m), (iii) the ground area necessary for positioning the towers is very small with respect to to the surrouding agricultural areas, as well as the fact (iv) that the long-distance power lines are objects that are completely compatible with all forms of agricultural activities, i.e. that such activities may continue during the operation phase of the lines, it is envisaged that the project will have no significant impact on the agricultural processes and revenues. Therefore, no significant measurable effect would be created on the revenue generation of effected farmers and agricultural companies. The permanent loss of land, forest and other property, as well as the eventual damage during the construction phase or during the maintenance of the transmission line would be subject of compensation pursuant to the current Macedonian legislation. MEPSO will conduct an appropriate process of land acquisition with each natural person or legal entity that is a land owner, which is necessary for implementing the project. Visual Aspects At certain locations, the new interconnection 400 kV long-distance power line will cause limited visual changes in the current landscape. Due to the (i) relatively thin design of the towers and (ii) the principle of selecting a corridor of the route which is parallel with already existing structure / power lines, and due to the (iii) significant distance from inhabited places, the visual effect casued by the transmission line is expected to be low. It is considered that the visual amenity of the study area in general would not deteriorate to a significant degree and the overall impact upon the population of the study area is therefore limited. 18

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Visible changes will occur only in places of intersection of the transmission line with roads and places for bridging deep gullies and ravines. Based on the past experience it can be concluded that the visual aspects associated with OHL developments do not represent crucial aspect for their acceptance by the local population and it is likely that the majority of the community will regard the visual impact as being acceptable. Consultation to date with residents in the vicinity of the OHL route has been generally positive. Cultural Heritage If during the earth works, existence of artefacts is determined or indications occur that in certain locations there is potential archaeological goods, the construction works will be stopped, and the locations in questions will be protected and temporarily fenced, in order to avoid eventual negative implications concerning their safety and condition. Waste Management During its life cycle, the transmission line will generate various types and fractions of waste, including communal waste, waste from packaging and construction activities. Additionally, it is expected that minor quantities of certain fractions of hazardous waste be created. During its entire life cycle, there will be appropriate approach, for the purpose of ensuring proper waste management. This approach will take into consideration the requirements and obligations defined in the Macedonian legislation in the field of waste management.

19

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Environment Management Plan The project's environmental management plan (EMP) in standard Worl Bank format consisting of the set of mitigation, monitoring, and institutional measures to be taken during implementation and operation to eliminate adverse environmental impacts, offset them, or reduce them to acceptable levels has been developed as part of the EIA process. The plan also includes the actions needed to implement these measures. The EMP is an essential element of the EIA study. It has been developed based on (i) identification of the set of mitigation measures to potentially adverse impacts, (ii) determination of requirements for ensuring that those measures are made effectively and in a timely manner, and (iii) description of the means for meeting those requirements. The EMP provides an essential link between the impacts predicted and mitigation measures specified within the EIA study and implementation and operational activities. It outlines the anticipated environmental impacts of the project, the measures to be undertaken to mitigate these impacts, institutional responsibilities for mitigation and the time frame. The EMP has been formulated in such a way that it is easy to use. The following aspects are addressed within the EMP: •

Description of mitigation measures. The EMP identifies feasible and cost effective measures to reduce impacts to acceptable levels. Each mitigation measure is briefly described with reference to the impact to which it relates and timeline under which it is required.

•

Description of monitoring program: Environmental performance monitoring has been designed to ensure that mitigation measures are implemented and have the intended result. The monitoring program clearly indicates the linkages between impacts identified in the EIA study, parameters to be measured, methods to be used, monitoring locations, frequency of measurements and timeline of the monitoring activities.

•

Institutional arrangements: Responsibilities for mitigation and monitoring are defined. The EMP identifies arrangements for coordination between the various actors responsible for mitigation. It also identifies the competent governmental agencies responsible for specific environmental management areas.

The EMP will be implemented during the construction and operaton of the interconnection 400 kV transmission line. The environmental management section contained in the EIA main report details, as far as possible at present stage of planning, the mitigation and monitoring measures as well as institutional responsibilities to be taken during project implementation. This includes subsequent project activities: detail design process, construction and operation. It will be task of the appointed contractors to further detail the issues addressed in this EIA study, depending on the progress of the project planning, until construction (details for storing the construction and other materials, the access roads for transport, locations for assembling / installation of towers). It is recommended to MEPSO that environmental issues addressed in this EIA study are used for detailing of the environmental specifications in the tender documentation for selection of the construction contractor(s).

20

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Furthermore, each requirement that will result from the process of obtaining decision by the MEPP and other competent bodies, will have to be included in the final documentation for construction. The detailed design and construction provisions for environmental protection and mitigation will be agreed by MEPSO with competent authorities. The defined requirements for protection of the environment will be an obligatory part of the contracting conditions for the construction contractor who will be also obliged to adopt and follow the good management and environmental practices during construction activities and maintain the minimum possible impact on the vegetation, soil, ground and surface waters, air, wild life and landscape, including the impact on the inhabited places and local communities. With the aim of ensuring effective implementation of the EMP, MEPSO will appoint staff to undertake environmental supervision and moniotirng during the construction phase. Key responsibilities of this staff will be to ensure that measures and control as defined in the works contract and issued permits and decisions are applied in an appropriate manner. This also includes coordination with Adminsitration for Environment Protection within the MEPP and the Cultural Heritage Protection Office (CHPO) within the Ministry of Culture. Environmental management during the operational phase of the interconnection 400kV transmission line will generally consists of monitoring the efficiency of measures incorporated during the design and monitoring the operational performance. The operation management and monitoring will be organized and conducted by MEPSO.

21

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Introduction

22

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Responsible Expert and Team of Experts for Preparation of the Study

Request for implementation of the project Name of the requesting party: Macedonian Transmission System Operator - MEPSO Address of the requesting party: str. Orce Nikolov bb 1000 Skopje Macedonia www.mepso.com.mk re: Project for construction and operation of 400 kV interconnection transmission line SS Stip – SS Nis (section: SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian border)

Responsible expert for preparing the Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Name and surname:

Konstantin Siderovski MSc Position: Senior Consultant for Environment Address: str. Razlovechko vostanie no. 26/А – 27 1000 Skopje Macedonia Date: 15 February 2010 Signature:

Team of experts for preparation of the Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Expert Project component Mitko Dimov

Hydro / geology, soils and water aspects

Vlado Matevski Ph.D.

Biological diversity (habitats and flora)

Branko Micevski Ph.D.

Biological diversity (biomes and fauna)

23

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

EIA license document issued by the MEPP

24

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Rationale The development of Trans-European Power Grid is one of the political and economic priorities of the EU policy for the South-East Europe (SEE) region. The power connection of Balkan countries and reconstruction of national grids is underway. Expansion of the Union for Coordination of Transmission of Electricity – UCTE) towards SEE is an essential step towards establishment of regional energy market in the countries of this region. Bearing in mind the fact that the exchange of energy between and through power grids of Macedonia and Serbia continually increases on annual basis, and the conditions with burdended operations that occur depending on the seasonal needs in the countries of the region, the need for planning a construction of a new 400 kV interconnection transmission line between the power grids of Macedonia and Serbia is more than evident. This project idea has dated 30 years ago. The interconnection 400 kV transmission line would enable realisation of the following goals: 1.

Ensuring better operational safety of the power grid in the region of SEE and strengthening the power connection between the north and the south, especially during the summer periods, when there is intensive power exchange along this corridor, as well as in case of significant surpass of transmission capacities in the region.

2.

Ensuring conditions for safe and secure exchange of increased quantities of electric power, both between the Macedonian and Serbian power grid, and between grids of the Balkan countries.

25

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Picture – Planned development of interconnection power grid in SEE

Interconnection 400 kV OHL Macedonia - Serbia

Source: UCTE Transmission Development Plan, Edition 2008

26

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Relevant Legislation for Environmental Impact Assessment

National legislation: •

Constitution of the Republic of Macedonia (Official Gazette of RM no. 52/91, 01/92, 31/98, 91/01, 84/03 and 107/05) and the Constitutional Law on the Republic of Macedonia (Official Gazette of RM no..52/91 and 4/92);

Legislation in the area of the environment: •

Law on the Environment (Official Gazette of RM no. 53/05, 81/05 and 24/07) o Decree on determining the projects and criteria based on which the need for environmental impact assessment procedure is determined (Official Gazette of RM no. 74/05) o Regulation on information that is to be included in the notification for expressing interest for implementation of the project and the procedure for determining the need for environmental impact assessment of the project (Official Gazette of RM no. 33/2006) o Regulation on the contents of requirements that should be fulfilled by the EIA Study (Official Gazette of RM no. 33/2006) o Regulation on the contents of announcement concerning the notification for expression of interest for implementation of a project, the decision concerning the need for environmental impact assessment study, the environmental impact assessment study, report about the relevance of the environmental impact assessment study and the decision by which an approval or rejection is pronounced for mplementation of the project, as well as the manner of consulting the public (Official Gazette of RM no. 33/2006) o Regulation on the form, contents, procedure and manner of preparation of the report concerning the relevance of the environmental impact assessment study study and the procedure for authorizing persons from the List of Experts for environmental impact assessment who are to prepare the report (Official Gazette of RM no. 33/2006)

•

Law on the Ambiental Air Quality (Official Gazette of RM no. 67/04 and 92/07) o Regulation on the criteria, methods and procedures for assessing the quality of ambiental air (Official Gazette of RM no. 67/04) o Decree on the limit values of level and types of substances that pollute the ambiental air and tresholds for alarms, deadlines for achieving the border values, margins of tolerance of limit values, target values and long-tem goals (Official Gazette of RM no. 22/05)

•

Law on Waters (Official Gazette of RM no.87/08) o Decree on the Classification of Waters (Official Gazette of RM no. 18/99) o Decree on categorizing the water flows, lakes, accumulations and ground waters (Official Gazette of RM no. 18/99 and 71/99)

•

Law on Waste Management (Official Gazette of RM no. 68/04, 71/04 and 107/07) o List of waste (Official Gazette of RM no. 100/05)

•

Law on Noise Protection in the Environment (Official Gazette of RM no. 79/2007)

27

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

o

o

o

•

Regulation on Locations of Measuring Stations and Measuring Locations (Official Gazette of RM no. 120/08) Regulation on Border Values of Level of Noise in the Environment (Official Gazette of RM no. 147/08) Decision on Defining the Cases and Conditions under which the Peace of Citizens is Distorted by Harmfull Noise (Official Gazette of RM no. 01/09)

Law on Nature Protection (Official Gazette of RM no. 67/04, 14/06 and 84/07)

Other relevant legislation: •

Regulation on Technical Principles for Construction of Overhead Lines with nominal voltage of 1 kV to 400 kV (Official Gazette of SFRY no. 68/1988)

•

Law on Energy (Official Gazette of RM no. 63/06 and 36/07)

•

Law on the Local Self-Government (Official Gazette of RM no. 05/02)

•

Law on Spatial and Urban Planning (Official Gazette of RM no. 51/05, 37/07 and 24/08) o Regulation on the Standards and Principles of Spatial Planning (Official Gazette of RM no. 69/99); o Regulation on the More Detailed Contents, Proportions and Graphic Processing of Urban Plans (Official Gazette of RM no. 78/06 and 140/07)

•

Law on Construction (Official Gazette of RM no. 130/09)

•

Law on Protection of Cultural Heritage (Official Gazette of RM no. 20/04 and 115/07)

•

Law on Expropriation (Official Gazette of RM no. 33/95, 20/98, 40/99, 31/03, 46/05 and 10/08)

Relevant International Multilateral Agreements: •

UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (New York, 1992) o Kyoto Protocol to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change

•

UN Convention on Biological Diversity (Rio de Janeiro, 1992)

•

Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn, 1979) o Agreement on the Conservation of Bats in Europe (London, 1991)

•

European Convention on Landscape (Florence, 2000)

•

Convention of the Conservation of European Wild Life and Natural Habitats (Bern, 1982)

Relevant Directives of European Council: •

Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC)

•

Directive on Habitats (92/243/EEC)

28

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

The Process of Environmental Impact Assessment in Macedonia The EU Directive on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA Directive 85/337/EEC, as amended by 97/11/EEC) defines the requirements for assessment of potential effects on the environment by some public and private pojects that are expected to have significant impact on the environment. EIA is conducted prior the issuance of construction permit and approval for project implementation. The envrionmental impact may be the impact on human beings and biological diversity, soil, water, air and other natural resources and climate, hystorical and cultural heritage, as well as the interaction among these elements. This EU Directive has been transposed into legislation in the Republic of Macedonia. Thus, prior to issuing construction permit or approval for implementation of certain types of projects, it is mandatory to conduct the EIA. The EIA process is intended to anticipate the potential risks and avoid or mitigate eventual damage, while at the same time to balance the social and economic goals with the goals for environmental protection. The environmental impact assessment of certain projects is an obligation that has to be conducted in Macedonia, pursuant to Article 76 – 94 of the Law on the Environment. The whole EIA process includes three specific procedures. They are the following: 1.

‘screening’ (i.e., the stage of determining whether an EIA is required)

2.

‘scoping’ (i.e., the stage of determining the scope or extent of the environmental impact assessment), and

3.

‘review’ (i.e., the stage of reviewing the EIA study to see if it has been undertaken to an acceptable standard and in accordance with the legal requirements).

29

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Methodology and Approach during the Preparation of the EIA This EIA study has been prepared according to the requirements contained in the Macedonian legislation and international financial institutions. The project proposal for construction of the 400 kV cross-border transmission line between Macedonia and Serbia is included in the Decree on Defining Projects and Criteria Based on Which the Need for EIA is conducted (Official Gazette of RM no, 74/2005), in Annex I, item 17 – Installing transmission lines and other power facilities of 110 kV voltage or higher, and longer than 15 km. In the Republic of Macedonia, there are national sector guidelines for conducting EIA for power lines [Ref.19]. The guidelines in this document were used in the course of preparation of this EIA study. Additionally, some international guidelines and instructions for this type of projects were reviewed and used. The methodology of preparation of EIA study included planning and realization of three main groups of activities: Activity 1: Data Collection and Preparation of “Baseline” Study The data collection provided a fund of relevant information and clear picture about the status of the environment and social surrounding along the route of 400 kV transmission line, as a main precondition for comprehensive analysis of possible impact on the environment by the project, and consequently, the necessary measures to be undertaken for its mitigation. This activity involved desk study, as well as activities for field survey, and consequently, preparation of the “baseline” study. Analyses were focused on the review of available design and technical documentation for the power line. The field survey was conducted with the aim of evaluating the natural and ecological resources of the wider corridor of the transmission line. Activity 2: Conducting a Study for Environmental Impact Assessment The EIA study is based on the following technical requirements: √

Overview of the considered alternatives

√

Identification and evaluation of probable direct and indirect impacts during the basic phases of the project life cycle: - Engineering design (planning stage) in coordination with the MEPSO design team - Performing construction works (construction stage) and - Functioning of the transmission line (operational stage).

√

Cumulative effects

√

Protection of the environment, flora / fauna and other natural resources

√

Proposal of applicable mitigation measures, giving preference to avoidance and prevention measures and use of compensation as a last resort.

√

Definition of an Environment Management Plan (EMP), pursuant to the standard EMP format of the World Bank

The approach of the expert team for EIA study involved coordination and synergy of activities with the MEPSO design team for the transmission line. The goal of the aforementioned was 30

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

to ensure practical application of the preventive principle on the entire design process of the power line, which in the long-run helps in avoiding eventual conflicts or harmful effects on the environment during the future practical implementation of the project. a) Anticipation of impacts on the environment and their description Methodology used to identify and assess potential environmental impacts includes: •

Review of published literature

•

Acquisition and review of the unpublished documents and reports from various organizations (governmental agencies, universities) and other similar projects

•

Interviews with representative of MEPSO, resource persons and representatives of interest groups

•

Review of relevant statistical and cartographic databases and various census data

•

Site visits and field investigations

Impacts are likely to be significant if they: •

Are extensive over space or time

•

Are intensive in relation to assimilative capacity of the environment

•

Exceed environmental standards or thresholds

•

Do not comply with environmental policies / land use plans

•

Affect ecological sensitive / important areas or natural heritage resources

•

Affect community lifestyle, traditional land uses and values b) Measures for mitigating the effects

Mitigation measures are required when significant adverse effects are likely. Mitigation activities proposed in this EIA study are consistent with the requirements of the relevant legislation and policies as well as with best international practice. The principles of mitigation, including its hierarchical manner are as follows: •

Preference to avoidance and prevention measures

•

Consideration of feasible alternatives to the proposal

•

Identification of customized measures to minimize each major impact

•

Ensure they are appropriate and cost-effective

•

Use compensation as a last resort

31

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Picture – Hierarchy of mitigation

Common, desirable

Avoidance

Mitigation

Compensation Rare, undesirable

Alternative sites or technology to eliminate adverse effects and loss

Actions during design, construction and operation to minimize or eliminate adverse effects and loss

Used as a last resort to offset loss

Activity 3: Consultaton and Finalisation The expert team that prepared this EIA study, is in charge to participate in the process of presenting the study before the interested public and during the consultations with the public, as well as in the review process of the EIA study, which is to result with final acceptance of the Study by the MEPP. The Macedonian legislation concerning the EIA defines the rules and detailed procedures for including the public in the decision-making process. The practical public involvement is performed through: a) disclosing of the information to the public, b) public participation where public can actively be involved in public discussions and submitting its written opinion within the different EIA phases of the procedure and c) through the mechanism of access to justice, when public could influence the decision making with submitting appeals to the Court or Second Instance Commission of the Government. According to the Macedonian national legislation, the public is involved in every stage of the EIA procedure. Every decision made during the process should be published in appropriate media and the public could follow and participate through the different steps of the procedure. This applies for the following documents: •

Notification for the intention for project implementation

•

EIA Screening decision

•

EIA Scoping decision

•

Announcement for availability of the EIA study

•

Non-technical summary of the EIA study,

•

Report on the adequacy of the EIA study,

•

Decision on granting consent to or rejecting the application for the project implementation.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

The public could express its opinions about the EIA study during the public hearing event(s), organised by the MEPP, and through submitting written opinions to the MEPP. These requirements will be respected by MEPSO. All relevant documents produced in the course of prepration of this study are available to the public, timely delivered and placed in locations that are easily accessible to the local population. An overview of the public consultations process in Macedonia is given in the following picture.

33

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Picture - Overview of the EIA public consultation process in Macedonia

Public participation in the EIA process in Macedonia

Public Announcement for the availability of the study

EIA study

Submitting of written opinions

Public hearing(s) for the EIA study

MEPP

Informing of the public and the NGOs

Public, NGOs

MEPP, developer, experts who have prepared the study

MEPP

MEPP

Minutes Participants, conclusions, stenographic notes, video and audio records MEPP

Availability of information for participation in the public hearing Investor, State Authorities, Local- self Government(s)

MEPP

Legend:

EIA – Environmental Impact Assessment

Public participation

Competent Authority

Institution to which activity is directed

Participants in the public hearing

Activity

Where information is published

MEPP – Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning

Source: Macedonian Green Center (www.zeleni.org.mk) 34

Publishing of the Minutes Web page on MEPP

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

1

Alternatives Concerned

1.1

Introduction

The overhead 400 kV transmission line for connecting the power grids of the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Serbia will significantly improve the quality and flexibility of the power supply in the region. This cross-border connection will improve the conditions for a safe and secure transfer of greater power potential between the two countries. The construction and future operation of this transmission line between Macedonia and Serbia, in combination with implementation of projects for the new 400 kV transmission lines to Greece (Bitola – Florina) and to Bulgaria (Stip-Chervena Mogila) will strengthen the entire capacity of the power system corridor North-South. During the preparatory phase of the project, MEPSO prepared several pre-feasibility studies and feasibility studies about the interconnection 400 kV transmission, including a study for selecting the most optimal route thereof. 1 [Ref. 7]. Summary of reveiwed alternative variants for selection of optimal corridor for the route of the transmission line is presented in the following picture. Picture – Alternatives for the route of the 400 kV interconnection transmission line Macedonia-Serbia

40 0k VД В ТС Ш ти пМа ке до нс ко -С рп ск

II

аг

ва

ца

а

ар

нт

ни

ја

ра

ри

Iв иј ан та

Т С 4 0 0/11 0 k V Ш т и п

Legend: • •

Alternative I Alternative II -

Source: MEPSO

1

Report:

“Selection of optimal corridor for the route of the 400 kV interconnection transmission line SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian border”, MEPSO, October 2008 35

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Selection of optimal route for overhead power transmission line is a serios challange in terms of planning, due to (i) the environmental aspects of the process, (ii) the various legal principles and standards and (iii) growing interest and expectations of the public. Due to these reasons, the optimisation of one transmission power line includes a set of criteria for selection of the most favourable solution and represents a complex process that needs to be conducted according to the national legislation and technical regulations, the experience to date and the best international practices. In this context, the key issues that have to be addressed in the course of selection of the transmission line route according to the worldwide experience, may be graded according to their importance in the following way: (i)

Impact of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on the human health (biological effects from the EMF).

(ii)

Visual aspects / effects

(iii)

Use of space and corridors

(iv)

Ownership aspects and property value

(v)

Social aspects, particularly in the context of rejection by the local community

(vi)

General and public interest – justification and feasibility of the project

(vii) Administrative procedures and licenses (viii) Biological diversity (habitats, flora and fauna) (ix)

Consultations with the local communities

(x)

Noise and electromagnetic interference

1.2

Starting and End Point of the Transmission Line

In the course of the selection of route for the interconnection 400 kV transmission line, two variants of the route corridor were analysed. The starting and end point on the Macedonian territory are defined and constant in both variants. The starting point is 400 kV transmission line field (spatial reserve) in the new SS 400 / 110 kV Stip. The end point, i.e. the point of connection at the border with Serbia is agreed to be east of the highway Kumanovo-Tabanovce, i.e. west of the River Pchinja, very near to the triangulation point "Jelena Glava”. Location of the border point resulted from the route definition on Serbian territory. Namely, starting from Nis, the route of 400 kV transmission line passes near the cities of Leskovac and Vranje, where construction of transformers 400 / x kV is planned in the future. 1.3

Alternative 1 of the Transmission Line Route

After the exit from the SS Stip, this variant of the corridor of the 400 kV transmission line route follows the existing 110 kV transmission line to SS Sveti Nikole, parallely with the regional road from Stip to Kumanovo. At the point where the regional road forks near the junction to Veles, the corridor continues to follow the regional road to Sveti Nikole, i.e. Kumanovo until the point where the road forks to Village Kokochinje, where the same corridor continues, with the second variant. Here, the corridor passes through the fertile land of Ovche Pole.

36

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

1.4

Alternative 2 of the Transmission Line Route

At the very exit from the SS Stip, this variant follows the direction of the newly built 400 kV transmission line to Bulgaria, and turning to the north-west, it spreads bellow the hills and the mountain Mangovica until the point where the road forks to Village Kokoshinje, where it continues in the same corridor with the first variant. The initial line of the second variant is more favourable than the second one because it avoids the fertile land of Ovche Pole. The corridor of the route continues near the regional road Sveti Nikole – Kumanovo, but near the Village Pezovo, east of the regional road, it spreads to Zebrnjak, where in north direction to Village Algunja, it cuts the regional road Kumanovo – Kriva Palanka and gets closer to the Macedonian - Serbian border. The positioning of corridor near the eastern part of Kumanovo has been made with the aim of future construction of a transformer of 400 kV Kumanovo near the line Tromegja – Zebrnjak. Picture – SS Stip - Starting point of the Interconnection 400 kV OHL Macedonia – Serbia

1.5

Selection of Optimal Corridor for the Route of the Transmission Line

The second variant, which is more favourable because it avoids the fertile areas of Ovche Pole, has been proposed as an optimal corridor for the route of the 400 kV transmission line. The corridor of the selected route passes through favourable low mountain terrain, which spreads in the direction north - south, along the lateral parts of the hill terrain, thus avoiding the direct positioning of the transmission line toward the wind direction. Along the entire corridor, the average altitude varies between 400-550 m. The proximal length of the route of the transmission line is 70 km. The selected route for the transmission line includes 16 reference point (RP) The geographical outline of RP is presented in Annex 2. In direction from south to the north, the reference points are the following:

37

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

UTM coordinates X Y 598097.9863 4626336.8289 597541.5055 4627784.8906 595834.5120 4630640.0057 594954.2294 4633347.0920 591473.9164 4635865.9097 589597.5774 4638521.6589 587091.4433 4641887.9379 584826.2356 4643197.3885 581973.8748 4645362.5548 578294.9308 4651227.2462 575157.8886 4655450.4374 573136.2530 4658269.7143 568428.0075 4664437.5981 566417.0278 4666677.0862 566543.0379 4679334.8599 563648.9657 4683952.7325

Reference point (RP) (starting point) RP 1 RP 2 RP 3 RP 4 RP 5 RP 6 RP 7 RP 8 RP 9 RP 10 RP 11 RP 12 RP 13 RP 14 RP 15 RP 16

Generaly, the entire route of the transmission line and its reference points are selected by the MEPSO planning team, in an environmentally sustainable and acceptable manner. The selected route of the transmission line (alternative 2) avoids the most important areas with indigenous halophyte vegetation that grows along the line between village Erdjelija, the railway station “Ovche Pole” and Sveti Nikole, which to a certain extent would have been endangered shoud the alternative 1 had been accepted. These are important habitats with specific halomorphic soils (salty soil), where very rare and endemic halophyte plant communities grow, adjusted to the extremely solty soil. The importance of these plant communities is confirmed by the fact that the habitat type to which they belong is on the list of EU Habitat Directive. The selected route was not able to avoid some minor areas with halophyte vegetation in the first half of the route (along the line between Stip and village Mechkuevci), but these are small and insignificant fragments with low biological significance and are in deteriorated condition. Halophytic plants with poor biological vitality are present in these fragments. No real possibility for their revitalisation exists. These areas are very limited and surrounded with agricultural plots. The present natural halophytic vegetation in these areas are remains of former vegetation that existed before the period of intensive irrigation and alteration of the land use for agricultural purposes. Still, relevant protection measures are envisaged for protection of these areas during implementation of the project activities. The proposed optimal corridor of the route is presented in the following picture.

38

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Picture - The selected route of the 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian – Serbian border

40 В VД 0k ТС Ш ти ке Ма пдо нс ко -С рп ск

II

ри

ца ни ра аг а нт

ва

ја

Iв ар иј ан та

ТС 4 00/110 k V Ш тип

Source: MEPSO

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

1.6

Zero Alternative (Do Nothing Alternative)

In case of termination of implementation of the project, the effects would be the following: •

Unchanged conditions for transfer of electricity between Macedonia and Serbia.

•

Unchanged quality, safety amd flexibility of the power supply systems in the region.

•

Unchanged total capacity of the power corridor north-south.

•

Unchanged voltage profiles of power grids.

•

Unreduced presence of energy overloads in the existing power supply grid.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

2

Description and Characteristics of the Project

2.1

Existing Power Transmission Grid in Macedonia

The existing power transmission grid in Macedonia includes 400 kV, 220 kV and 110 kV substations and power transmission lines. The Macedonian power grid is connected with Serbia (Kosovo) with interconnection lines of 400 kV and 220 kV, with Greece – 400 kV and with Bulgaria – 400 kV and 110 kV, and provides electricity for all users of the transmission network. The system is three-phase, with frequency of 50 Hz, and direct neutral point for grounding and voltage levels of 400 kV, 220 kV and 110 kV. Within this sytem, the existing 400 kV grid has been designed and constructed according to the following data: ƒ

Network voltage level – 400 kV

ƒ

Equipment rated voltage – 420 kV

ƒ

Lighting impulse withstand voltage – 1425 kV

ƒ

Frequency – 50 Hz

ƒ

Grounding on a neutral point – solidly(direct) grounding

ƒ

Short circuit current – 40 kA

ƒ

Duration of the short circuit – 1 sec

ƒ

Coordination of the insulation – IEC 71-1, 71-2, JUS 130.130

ƒ

Degree of pollution – normal/middle

ƒ

Maximum air humidity – 100%

Picture – Map of electric power in Macedonia

Source: www.mepso.com.mk

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

2.2

Scope and Project Life Cycle

The scope of the project includes planning, construction and operation of the interconnection 400 kV transmission line from the existing substation 400 / 100 kV near Stip to the Macedonian – Serbian border. The project involves construction of new OHL field in the existing substation. The entire life cycle of the project includes the following phases: o

Selection of adequate corridor for the route of the transmission line This phase has been realised through (i) identifying the potential alternative routes, (ii) assessment of the feasibility thereof and (iii) selection of the most feasible alternative.

o

Planning and design phase. This phase is underway and includes preparation of relevant planning documentation, including technical and design documentation and analysis of the environment aspects. The planning documentation will be prepared in accordance with the requirements of the current Macedonian and international legislation for this type of facilities.

o

Construction phase. Activities of this phase will include construction activities and installation of the necessary infrastructure and equipment.

o

Operational phase. This project phase will include operational activites of the transmission line, including maintenance and control.

o

Decommisioning and closure of the installation. This phase will include measures for recultivisation and future use of the area, as well as measures for managing the impact on the environment during the post-project period.

All components of the interconnection 400 kV transmission line SS Stip – MacedonianSerbian border (towers, foundations, conductors, protective wires and insulators) and all their elements will be designed, produced, tested and installed according to the indicated conditions of the 400 kV grid in Macedonia. The entire equipment must be designed and constructed in the manner that will ensure safe operation in the ambiental conditions that dominate in the area where the transmission line is to be built, and under various energy burdens and voltages that might occur during the operaton of the transmission grid. 2.3

Technical Characteristics of the Transmission Line

The planned transmission line will be designed and constructed in compliance with the current Regulation on the Technical Rules for Construction of Overhead Power Lines with Nominal Voltage of 1kV to 400 kV, as well as, with the remaining valid standards, rules and regulations. The length of the transmission line is approximately 70 km.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

The basic technical paramteres of the transmission line are presented in the following table: Table – Review of technical parameters of the 400 kV interconnection transmission line Parameter Characteristic Nominal voltage 400 kV Type of towers Steel-bar hot zinc-coated, with horizontally placed conductors, two per phase and two protective wires Foundation Typical solutions, depending on the engineering and geo-mechanical parameters of the ground. Reinforced concrete - brand of concrete acording to the valid regulations. Protection against corrosion of anchor segment, 50 cm above the level of the terrain. Conductor √ Number per phases: 2 √ Material: AlFe √ Section: 490/65 mm2 √ Maximum work strain: According to valid regulations Protective wire Two earth-lead wires in horizontal lowland: • First: Alumoweld hawser with diameter of 126.1 mm2, labeled AWG 19/9 • Second: Protective hawser with optic fiber, OPGW with 48 fibers (Mechanical and electric characteristics will correspond to classic protective hawser) Insulators • Type of insulator: - On the line: Phase, massive, porcelain insulator of the type 75/21+20=160 or glass hanging insulators U-160 - On the portal: Glass hanging, of the type U-160 • Type of insulator chain: According to the regulations Earthing of towers • Specific resistance of the ground: According to the terrain measurements of specific places and use of typical earthing • Material: Circular zinc-coated steel Dimensions: Minimum diameter ∅10 mm Connective materials for the planned insulators are hot zinc-coated. 2 √ Wind pressure: 75 daN/m 2 √ Burden from ice and snow: 1,6 x 0,18√d daN/m √ External temperature: - Maximum + 40 °С - Minimum - 20 °С At least 1 m higher than the prescribed in the Regulation, as a result of tiredness of the materials, intensive construction of near-by facilities, use of agricultural machinery, etc. •

Connective equipment Climate parameters

Safety hight

2.3.1

Towers

According to the current concept in Macedonia, all single 400 kV power transmission lines have been constructed by connecting two conductors per phase and symetrically positioned cables. Prusuant to the aforementioned and based on the practices and experience to date, 400 kV transmission lines are constructed of steel bars hot zinc-coated with horizontally placed conductors and protective wires in the form of the letter "Y”. This means that the towers for the 400 kV cross-border transmission line between Macedonian and Serbia will meet the following basic technical and technological conditions:

43

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

ƒ

One system

ƒ

Horizontal connection of two conductors per phase

ƒ

Two symmetrically positioned protective wires

ƒ

Steel-bar hot zinc-coated construction

ƒ

Use of insulator chain with glass / porcelain insulation units

ƒ

Persistant in various climate conditions

ƒ

Esthetically acceptable profile with good height - width ration

In addition to the aforementioned, the basic height of each type of tower must also meet the following conditions: o

all working conditions

o

average span

o

requirements for safe distances and height

o

limited tension phase conductors and protective wires

o

allowed (anticipated) non-elastic stretching of phase conductors

The electric design of the “heads” of the towers and the established safe distances must ensure safe operation in all working climate conditions, in relation to the used phase conductors, protective wires and insulator chains and for the designed, average and gravitation spans. The static calculation and dimensioning of towers must be made based on the theory of elasticity for spatial constructions, in compliance with the accepted methodology for the prescribed single and combined common and additional loads and relevant safety coeficients. In order to ensure easier and safer operation of the authorized personnel during the constrction and installation of equipment, as well as during the activities for maintenance, stairs must be placed on both forks of the tower. The standard marking of the overhead power transmission line includes the following: ƒ

Warning table and signs in the appropriate form

ƒ

Tables for marking of the phases with designations 0,4 or 8 that are positioned on the angle-tension towers, above the phase conductors according to the defined order.

ƒ

Tables for noticing from air with the tower number, which are set at one of the two peaks.

In addition to these standards, with the aim of increasing the visibility of the power line both during the day and night, it is necessary to mark it in defined places (painting the towers in white colour and red strips, establishing signal balls on the protection wires and installation of "Balisor" lighting balls on the phase conductors.

44

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

2.3.2

Foundations

The foundation of transmission lines will be made of reinforced concrete blocks. The type of concrete should provide conditions for placing normal foundations and should be suitable to the specific carrying capacity of the terrain. In case of weak carrying capacity of the terrain at certain spots and based on the geo-technical investigations, relevant specific solutions will be designed and conctructed. The final solutions in relation to the type of foundation for each single tower location, depend on the geo-technical investigation. The upper surface of the foundation body will be at least 500 mm above the level of the surrounding terrain. 2.3.3

Grounding

In the context of safety and protection at work (reducing the effects from electric shock, etc.) a special accent will be given to the grounding of towers. This procedure should be conducted in compliance with the requirements of the technical regulations. The grounding resistance on each tower must be lower than 17.5 ohms, while for the first five towers before the substation Stip, it should be at the most 10 ohms. 2.3.4

Phase Conductors

For the phase conductors for this 400 kV cross-border transmission line, pursuant to the current concept for this type of power lines in Macedonia, conductors AlFe will be used with normal diameter of 490/65 mm2. Two conductors per phase are planned, at a mutual distance of 400 mm. Characteristics of the conductors will be in compliance with the national standards. According to the practical experience to date, the maximum permitted (operational) tension in the case of most unfavourable (low) temperature conditions, with additional strain by a layer of ice of 1.6 and 2.5 x 0.18 √d daN/m2 is 8 daN/m2 (less than 40% of the calculated force for tearing of the conductor in question). In case of exceptional allowed tension at the safety point of phase conductors, the same may have the value of daN/m2 (less than 75% of the calculated force of tearing of the conductor). The exceptional allowed tension on a steep terrain will be controlled by great gravitation span. In places where there is a need for increased level of mechanical security and where required by regulations, the maximum allowed (operational) strain should be reduced to 7.5 (7.2) daN/mm2. In the plugging span to the substation, the strain should also be reduced to 5.0 daN/mm2. 2.3.5

Protective Wires

One of the protective wires will be ordinary alumweld wire 19/9. The other one will be made of optic fibres – OPGW 120/70, with similar mechanical and electric characteristics as the ordinary protective wire. The maximum allowed (operational) strain in case of the most unfavourable (low) temperature conditions, with additional strain by layer of ice of 1.6 и 2.5 x 0.18√d daN/m2 has been selected in compliance with the phase conductor and it must meet the following requirements:

45

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

ƒ

The safety coefficients of protective wires should be higher than the coefficients of phase conductors.

ƒ

The slope of the protective wire should be 10-15% smaller than the slope of the phase conductor.

The protective wire must efficiently protect the phase conductors from atmospheric discharges in a protective angle of 300. 2.3.6

Insulators

The 400 kV transmission line will belong to the grid with directly grounded neutral point and a degree of insulation for which the nominated lightening impulse withstand voltage is 1425 kV. The insulator that is to be used will be of type approved for such power lines and appropriate assembling procedures will be carried out for the various types of insulator chains. Depending on the type of the tower, the insulator chains will be in two different types: suspension chains and tension chains. For carrying the middle phase conductor at the suspension towers, the “V” type of insulator chains will be used. The same will be assembled so as to ensure proper distance between the tower beam and the hanging clamp, with tollerance of +/- 50 mm. If needed, the insulator chains will be electrically and/or mechanically reinforced by additional insulator units. Each single element of the assembled devices and equipment must be compliant to the relevant national / international standards for materials, dimensions, production and testing. Corosion protection of the connective equipment will be made by zinc-coating. Namely, the tests for this equipment are mechanical and electrical, where the individual elements are tested, as well as the sub-devices and devices (complete insulator chains). 2.4

Construction Works

During the construction activities, earth and reinforced concrete works will be carried out for construction of the foundation for the transmission line towers. Other construction works, construction steel-bar towers and installation of electric and protective equipment, including the conductors, insulators, protective wires, earthing, etc., will mainly be of prefabricated type. The design and manufacturing of elements of the steel-bar towers will be in compliance with the requirements incorporated in the Regulation on the technical principles for construction of overhead power lines with nominal voltage of 1 kV to 400 kV. It also includes undertaking engineering and designing measures for corrosion protection. In case the power line passes above facilities or entities in nature, i.e. in case when the power line approaches to facilities or entities in nature, the requirements incorporated in the Regulation on technical principles for construction of overhead power lines with nominal voltage of 1 kV to 400 kV will be followed. This refers to the prescribed safety heights and distances. Therefore, special attention is required while conducting the power line above buildings, inhabited places, forests and trees, roads, railway and bridge constructions, antenna installations, gas pipelines, and sections with other overhead power lines. The safety heights and distances for certain entites are presented in the following table:

46

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Table – Safety heights and distances for 400 kV power lines. entity / terrain condition safety height safety distance [m] [m] unaccesible places 6 5 (canyons, rocks, unnavigable rivers, marshes, etc.) places accessible for vehicles 8 7 forests and trees 5 inhabited places 9 roads 9 (local / regional / 12 / 12 / arterial roads/ highways) 22 / 42 bridge constructions 7 gas and oil pipelines 10 10 electrified railways 14 17 Source: Regulation on the technical principles for construction of overhead power llines with nominal voltage of 1 kV to 400 kV

For the construction of the transmission line, there are no plans for opening new installations for exploitation of mineral raw materials. Due to the nature of materials and the need for precise construction works, the concrete for the foundations of the steel towers will be ordered from licensed producer. At each individual tower location, prior the placement of concrete, there is a very sensitive phase of defining the centre of anchor elements of the tower where the connection of steel elements of the tower and its proper vertical position depend on the precision of these anchor elements. Along the route of the OHL there is a network of various categories of roads that will be used during the construction phase of the project, i.e. for transportation of components of the transmission line towers and other infrastructure, as well as for movement of the machinery and the equipment for their installation.

47

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Picture – Construciton and installation of transmission line infrastructure and equipment

Source: www.mepso.com.mk

48

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

If needed, pursuant to the Macedonian legislation for road construction, additional access roads will be designed and built, while bearing in mind the requirements and conclusions of this EIA study. Access roads will be used during the operation phase, most of all for the maintenance and monitoring of the transmission line. 2.5

Starting with Operation

The starting of operation will include assessment of parameters and performance of installed equipment and the degree of its conformity with the technical specifications. With the aim of ensuring safe and secure operation of the transmission line, including its conformity with requirements for environment protection, testing will be performed of the operability of the different components. 2.6

Operation and Maintenance

The project will be designed for continued operability (24 hours per day, 7 days per week) depending on the regime and parameters of the national and regional power transmission grid. Upon the beginning of operations, the transmission line will work without continuous presence of personnel. The maintenance and servicing of the equipment of the transmission line will be conducted during periodical visits of the maintenance personnel. 2.7

Termination of Operations or Replacement of Equipment

The eventual final termination of operations will involve activities for dismantling the infrastructure and equipment and their dislocation from the area of the corridor of the transmission line. The location will be subject of restoration and returning the environment in the initial condition, to the greatest possible extent. The biggest part of the transmission line equipment can be recycled or reused and it may be offered to other interested licensed companies.

49

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

3

Description of the Living and Social Environment

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

3.1

Geographical Position and Relief of the Route Area

The corridor of the route of the interconnection 400 kV transmission line mainly spreads through the territory of the following municipalities: Stip, Sveti Nikole, Kumanovo and Staro Nagorichane. Only a very small portion of the route passes through the Municipality of Karbinci.

Stip is located in the central-east part of the Republic of Macedonia. It covers an area of 556 km2, i.e. 3.1% of the territory of the country. On the territory of the municipality there are 71 inhabited places. The municipality is located in the middle basin of River Bregalnica. There are seven neighbouring municipalities: Radovish, Konche, Negotino, Gradsko, Lozovo, Sveti Nikole and Karbinci, with good position and road infrastructure. The Stip area is mostly surrounded by mountains and hills, with the exception of the valleys of Kochani, Ovche Pole and Lakavica, and the valleys of Rivers Bregalnica and Lakavica. The average altitude is 250 m. Sveti NIkole is located in the central-east part of the Republic of Macedonia. It covers an area of 480 km2, i.e. 1.9 % of the territory of the country. On the territory of the municipality there are 34 inhabited places. The municipality is located in the middle basin of River Bregalnica. There are seven neighbouring municipalities: Stip, Probistip, Kratovo, Kumanovo, Petrovec, Veles and Lozovo, with good position and road infrastructure. Sveti Nikole is located in Valley of Ovche Pole, at an average altitude of 280 m. This area belongs to the basin of River Svetinikolska, which is part of the wider basin of River Bregalnica. Kumanovo is located in the north-east region of the Republic of Macedonia. It covers an area of 1,212 km2, i.e. 4.71 % of the territory of the country. On the territory of the municipality there are 30 inhabited places. The municipality is located in basins of Rivers Pchinja and Kriva Reka. To the north, it borders with the Republic of Serbia, and with other seven municipalities: Staro Nagorichange and Kratovo to the east, Sveti Nikole and Petrovec to the south, Ilinden, Arachinovo and Lipkovo to the west.

51

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Staro Nagorichane is located in the north-east region of the Republic of Macedonia. It covers an area of 451 km2, i.e. 1.75 % of the territory of the country. On the territory of the municipality there are 39 inhabited places. The municipality is located in the basins of River Kriva Reka. To the north, it borders with the Republic of Serbia, and with other three municipalities: Kumanovo to the west and south-west, Rankovce to the east and Kratovo to the south-east. The route of the interconnection 400 kV transmission line spreads from the newly planned portal in the existing SS 400/110kV Stip, in the area “Ramnishte” to the area “Jelena Glava” at the Macedonian-Serbian border. The route is 70 km long. The general direction of the route is from south-east to north-west with 3 general azimuths. 1) ν1 = 338.980 ≈ 3390 (from РТ1 to РТ14); 2) 3)

ν 2 = 0.580 ≈ 10 (from РТ14 to РТ15); ν 3 = 327,920 ≈ 3280 (from РТ15 to РТ16);

According to its morphology, the route of the transmission line passes through several valleys, while part of the route passes through law mountain regions. The area of the route from its starting point (location Ramnishte (RP1)) until the area around Village Nemanjica (RP8) is mostly a lowland. Here, the route covers the north-east parts of Ovche Pole, east from Village Sarachievo and Village Vrsakovo, then it spreads between Village Mustafino and Village Sudich, to the line between Village Burilovci and Village Stanulovci, west from Village Mechkuevci and Village Ranchenci and ends before RP8 (north of Village Nemanjica). From RP8 to the location north-east of RP10 (before Village Dolno Gjugjance) the route of the transmission line enters into low mountainous terrain with few forests, across or by the tops Cuculica (601 m), Solena Chuka (641 m), Bilo 703 m), Shipo (652 m) Nikoleva Niva (675 m) and Kula (695 m). Along the line from RP10 until RP14, the route passes through a lowland, where the triangulation point decreases from 540 m near the location "Crvena Shuma" to 300 m by the River Pchinja. The same lowland continues on the other side of River Pchinja, to the north, but here there is a slight increase of the triangulation point at the Vilalge Nikuljane (566 m), which is located between RP14 and RP15. Along this line, the route of the transmission line continues to low mountainous region with few forests, by the tops Goljak (584 m), Balavi Rid (570 m), Badalavi Rid (640 m), Bandera (662 m) and Krst (597 m). Here, the route crosses the border and continues on the territory of Serbia.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

3.2

Climate Conditions in the Area

The route of the transmission line passes through a terrain with different climate conditions. There are two main climate types in the Republic of Macedonia: Mediterranean type and Continental type. In addition to the Mediterranean and Contitnental, there is also mountainous climate in the higher mountains. The basic climate characteristics of areas where the transmission line passes through are presented bellow: the valleys of Ovche Pole and Kumanovo. Climate Characteristics in Ovche Pole Valley This area is characterized by low to medium altitude, orographic openness to long periods of sunny days and scanted high vegetation. This area characterizes with special temperature regime. It is the result of described characteristics of the area and the entrance of cold and warm air during the year, which during the winter season result in low temperatures, and in the summer season with very high temperatures of the air. Due to this, the area is known by the increased absolute temperature variations, the value of which is 64.9 °С. According to the data from the meteorology stations of the Hydrometeorology Administration, the average annual temperature in this area is 12.9 °C. Sometimes it varies between 11.6 °C to 14.2 °C. The coldest month is January, with average monthly temperature of 1.3 °C. The warmest month is July, with average monthly temperature of 23.8 °C. The average winter temperature is 2.7 °C, while the average summer temperature is 23 °C. According to the temperature indicators, the conclusion is that the area characterizes with warm summers, and moderately cold winters, with occasional extremely low and high temperatures, increased temperature variations and warmer autumn than spring. The influence of the southern Mediterranean climate is very mild, while the modified moderate continental influence is stronger. The area is classified in areas with rare falls. The average annual quantity is 472 mm. During the year, the falls are uneven. The maximum is in May, with average monthly quantity of 63.3 mm, and the secondary maximum is in November, with 54.3 mm. The main minimum is in August, with average falls of 29.3 mm, and the secondary minimum is in February, with average quantity of 34.1 mm. This region belongs to areas with small quantities of falls and characterizes with more frequent dry periods. The regime of falls is similar to the Mediterranean, which is manifested with more falls during the colder part of the year. The falls in Ovche Pole are mostly rain falls. There are on average 18 days with snow falls during the year. The average annual relative humidity is 67% and during the year it gradually falls down from January unitl August, and then there is a more rapid increase from September until December. Sometimes, the average annual relative humidity varies between 64% to 73%, and average monthly humidity varies between 42% (in August) until 88% (in January). The average annual number of days with ice is 77, i.e. 52% of the number of days during an average icy period. The region also characterizes by winds. The north-west wind is the most frequent, with average annual speed of 5.7 m/sec, while its maximum speed is 27.0 m.sec. It blows during the whole year, but more frequently in July and August. The south-east wind is second by frequency in this region, with average annual speed of 6.2 m/ec, and maximum speed up to 27.0 m/sec. It blows during the whole year, but more frequently during March and April.

53

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Climate Characteristics in Kumanovo Valley This area characterizes by higher altitutde than Ovche Pole and it is more open to the north, which enables free flow of air from larger areas which during the winter period case lower temperatures. According to the data from the meteorological stations of the Hydrometeorology Administration, the average annual temperature in this area is 11.8 °C. Sometimes it varies between 10.8 °C to 13.0 °C. The coldest month is January, with average monthly temperature of 0.4 °C. The warmest month is July, with average monthly temperature of 22.3 °C. The average summer temperature is 22.8 °C. The temperature variation is 21.9 °C, which proves that annual movement of the air temperature is under the moderate continental climate influence. This area characterizes by more annual quantities of falls than Ovche Pole. The average annual quantity is 549 mm. During the year, the falls are uneven. The maximum is in May, with average monthly quantity of 72.1 mm, and the secondary maximum is in November, with 58.8 mm. The main minimum is in August, with average falls of 30.2 mm, and the secondary minimum is in February, with average quantity of 34.6 mm. The regime of falls is a result of the modified climate influence, which is part of the Central European pluviometric regime – rainy springs and quite dry winters. On average, there are 24 with snow falls annualy. The average annual relative humidity is 72% and during the year it gradually falls down from January unitl August, and then there is a more rapid increase until December. The maximum relative humidity is noticed in December, with 85% on average, while the minimum is in August, with 60% on average. The region also characterizes by winds. The north wind is the most frequent, with average annual speed of 3.1 m/sec, while its maximum speed is 26.4 m.sec. The north-west wind is second by frequency in this region, with average annual speed of 1.8 m/ec, and maximum speed up to 18.9 m/sec. The average annual number of days with ice is 79, i.e. 50 % of the number of days during an average icy period.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

3.3

Geology of the Area

3.3.1

Geological Characteristics of the Area

Larger part of the route of the transmission line, starting from RP1 to a point between RP8 and RP9, which is 24.5 km long belongs to the sheet Stip from the Basic Geological Map (1 : 100.000). Within this sheet, the following sediments have been identified: ƒ

ƒ

4

E3 – Upper Eocene sediments (from RP1 to a point between RP7 and RP8). They are the following: Basal series (conglomerates, sandstones and marls), then follows the Lower series, above which there are yellow sandstones and then the Upper series (consisting of carbonates and clastic rocks). The power of these sediments is estimated at approximately 150 metres.

τβ – Kyanite “Ezhevo Brdo”, whose north-east part of the rock massif is recognized 4

between RP2 and RP3. These effusive rocks have penetrated into the E3 sediments. ƒ

pr – Proluvial sediments recognized in several locations, such as the north-west part of Zletovo – Kratovo volcanic area: between RP3 and RP4, between RP4 and RP5 and between RP5 and RP7, as a cover layer of 4E3 sediments. They consist of poorly rounded or coarse pieces of andesite and Tertiary rocks. The estimated power of these sediments is between 10 and 30 metres.

ƒ

Pl,Q – Travertine limestone, recognized north of Village Nemanjica, between RP8 and RP9.

ƒ

ƒ

αah, αha, qα, θ, ω' – Volcanic rocks and layers of sediments (various types of andesites, ignimbrites, tuffaceous sandstones, volcanic breccias) in the north-west part of Zletovo – Kratovo volcanic area were recognized between RP7 and RP8 until a point between RP9 and RP10 (within the sheet Veles). al sediments of Rivers Ranchenska and Mechkievska - recognized at approximately 500 metres on the left (west) side of the route of the transmission line, from a point between RP6 and RP7.

Larger part of the route of the transmission line, from a point between RP8 and RP9, until RP10, long approximately 8 km, belongs to the Basic Geological Map (1 : 100.000) sheet Veles. Within this sheet, the following sediments have been identified: ƒ

ƒ

4

E3 [3E3]

2)

- Upper Eocene sediments, between RP9 and RP10 (previously described within sheet of Stip). αah, αha, qα, θ, ω' – Volcanic rocks and layers of sediments (various types of andesites, ignimbrites, tuffaceous sandstones, volcanic breccias) in the north-west part of Zletovo – Kratovo volcanic area were recognized between RP7 and RP8 until a point between RP9 and RP10 (previously described within the sheet of Stip).

ƒ

b – Organogenic-marsh sediments, recognized between RP9 and RP10 in the ditch “Boshkov Dol”, with occasional flow. The power of these sediments is unknown.

ƒ

d – Deluvial sediments, recognized from the point between RP9 and RP10 to the point RP10 and RP11 (within the sheet of Kumanovo).

Larger part of the route of the transmission line, from a point between RP10 and RP11, until the end of the route on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia, in length of 35 km, belongs

2)

It is same geological formation, but of different age, due to the lack of relicts of micro flora and fauna. 55

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

to the Basic Geological Map (1 : 100.000) sheet of Kumanovo. Within this sheet, the following sediments have been identified: ƒ

4

E3 [3E3]

3)

– Upper Eocene sediments, recognized between RP9 and RP10 (previously descried within the sheet of Shtip) and between RP11 and a point between RP12 and RP13 (north of the Village Zubovce). 3

ƒ

E3 – Upper Eocene limestone layers, from a point between RP10 and RP11, until a point right after RP11 (location “Pezovski Lozja”).

ƒ

d – Deluvial sediments, recognized from the point between RP9 and RP10 to the point RP10 and RP11 (previously described within the sheet of Veles). The sediments are recognized on the left (north-east side of the route of the transmission line, from RP11 to RP12 (between Village Pezovo and Village Murgash).

ƒ

ј – Lake sediments, recognized as small isolated formations (materials from the last lake stadium in the area) at RP12. They consist of mostly well-rounded quartz and various types of shale. The power of these sediments varies from 5 to 20 metres.

ƒ

M – Paleozoic marbles, as part of the remains from the Old Paleozoic formations, surrounded by Eocene flysch formations. They are recognized north of Village Zubovce (before RP13), on both sides of the River Pchinja. Actually, the River Pchinja here has formed its flow by cutting this geological structure.

ƒ

al, t1 – Alluvial and lower terrace river sediments, recognized near the River Pchinja (before RP13). The power of these sediments is unknown.

ƒ

Pl3? - Upper Pliocene sediments, recognized from RP13 to a point between RP14 and RP15 (near Village Nikuljane). They are made of yellow clayish sands, various types of sandstone clay, with thin layers of weakly connected gravel, registered in the upper part. The power of these sediments is estimated at approximately 400 metres.

ƒ

ƒ

θα – Andesitic tuffs, recognized on the right (eastern) side of the transmission line route (between RP14 and RP15) in small formations along a fault near Village Nagorichane. M; F; Sse; Sca – Paleozoic complex of marbles, filities, sericities, shales, with layers of metasandstones, as members of the series Kachanik-Veles from the Vardar tectonic zone. They are recognized from RP15 to RP16 (until the border between Macedonia and Serbia). 2

ƒ

3.3.2

Ol – Oligocenic sandstones, made of irregular quartz grains, and smaller part of carbonate grains. They are recognized south of RP15 (location “Balavi Rid”). Hydrogeological Characteristics of the Area

According to the lithologic structure, the type of porosity, degree and nature of cracks, presence of water and other hydrogeological parametres that induce their porosity, rocks (sediments) recognized along the route of the transmission line may be divided in the following groups: 1.

Medium Porous Rocks (sediments)

Within this group, there are: •

3)

аl (alluvial) и t1 (lower terrace) sediments of the River Pchinja, where there is a confined type of aquifer, whose maintenance, drainage, directions and oscillations on

It is same geological formation, but of different age, due to the lack of relicts of micro flora and fauna. 56

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

the level of the groundwater correspond to the River Pchinja. Only small part of water for maintenance of this aquifer comes from atmosphere falls, other part of water comes from occasional side inflows that enter into River Pchinja, and one part comes from side contact with less porous rocks (sediments). The power of these sediments is estimated at more than 3 metres. •

al (alluvial) sediments of River Luka, with identical characteristics as the ones described above. The power of these sediments is also estimated at more than 3 metres.

•

j (lake) sediments – typical for these sediments is the lack of confined type of aquifer in spite of the developed intergranular porosity, i.e. they are drained, due to their position and the small area that they cover (the highest spots on isolated hills).

•

3

E3 (Upper Eocene limestone layers) where there is a well developed karst type of aquifer with cracks. The maintenance of this type of aquifer comes from atmospheric falls and part from vertical infiltration of groundwater from developed al aquifer along the Stream Luka. It is realistic to expect lateral overflow of groundwater when making contact with layers of sandstones (that exist within the 3E3 flysch formation) Drainage of this aquifer, through surface manifestations has not been discovered, yet, but an exploitation well has been registered, which for the irrigation needs of vinyards (at approximately 3.500 m to south-east) has been exploited in quantities of 10 l/s.

•

M (Paleosoic marbles), as separate formations from Kachanik –Veles series, where a karst-fractured type of aquifer have been developed.. The maintenance of these rock masses, in addition to atmospheric rains, to a great extent depends on the regional fault structures, which in blocks divided the present rocks. The developed regional tectonic structure, which is part of the Vardar tectonic zone, definitely plays a role in the drainage of this aquifer. Drainage of this aquifer has also been registered through a karst spring (contact-overflow type) in the area near Village Nikuljane. Also, exploitation well has been registered in Village Nikuljane, which is used for watersupplying of the village. Also, a catchment of groundwater with pipe is led to a reservoir near Mlado Nagorichane (Jarebicharska Maala). The oscillation of level of groundwater in this aquifer is significant, which was registered through the condition of the spring (08 October 8th, 2009) with insignificant diffusive flow (Q < 0.2 l/s), under the concrete catchment.

2.

Medium Porous Rocks (sediments)

Within this group, there are: •

pr – Proluvial sediments, where there is a locally developed confinedconfined type of aquifer in limited area. The maintenance of this aquifer comes from atmosphere falls, part from surface flows and part from side contacts with less porous rocks (sediments). The drainage of this aquifer goes through springs of temporary character of up to (0.5 l/s).

•

Pl3? - gravel and sandstone layers within the Upper Pliocene sediments, where there is a confined type of aquifer. Depending on the nature and conditions of expansion, the water in this type of sediments exists freely, but also on levels under pressure (artesian and subartesian level). The maintenance of these layers to a lesser extent comes from atmospheric falls, while to a greater extent from overflows of groundwater of karstfractured aquifer, developed in the marble masses (through side and bottom contact). The drainage of this aquifer is made by natural overflow of the groundwater in the neighbouring lateral lower terrace sediments and through a large number of individual wells and catchments.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

•

ααη, αηα, θ, θα, ω∋ – Volcanic rocks and inter-layers sediments.. They characterise with developed fracture porosity shallow under the surface, and quantity of (Qi = 0.05 – 0.5 l/s). Most of them flow temporarily. The maintenance of theese layers comes from atmosphere falls.

•

τβ – Kyanite and trachybasalt. They have the same characteristics as the previously described rock masses.

•

Sca - Metamorphic sandstones. They have the same characteristics as the previously described rock masses. These rock masses supply and drain the water through lateral contact with porous marble masses.

3.

Predominantly Porous Rocks (sediments)

This group of rock masses (sediments) has the following characteristics: •

Low level of porosity and water production (T < 15m2/day).

•

The presence of springs with low level of production (Qi < 0,5 l/s) in non coherent rock masses. Most of them are of temporary nature.

•

The presence of shallow dug wells for the cattle and irrigation, which are generally exploited by occasional manual drawing water from the well.

•

Developed cracks and porosity, shallow under the surface and local limited spreading.

Within this group, there are: •

D, b – deluvial and organogenic marsh sediments.

•

4

•

F; Sse – fylite and sericite shales within the Paleozoic complex.

E3 [3E3] – Upper Eocene flysch sediments

Registered Hydrogeological Appearances and Objects Along the Route Along the route of the transmission line, the following hydrogeological appearances and objects have been registered: •

Temporary marsh areas, next to RP1 and after RP2

•

Subterranean channel (pipeline) for irrigation, between Rp3 and RP4

•

Subterranean channel (pipeline), after RP4

•

Non-captured temporary spring in the streamstream “Solen Dol”, between RP6 and RP7

•

Temporary marsh aras near Rivers Mechkuevska and Ranchenska, before RP7

•

Non-captured temporary spring at River Ranchevska, before RP7

•

Captured dry spring, located on the right side of the road Village Nemanjica – Village Ranchenci, between RP7 and RP8.

•

Group of dug wells (depth = 3.5 – 5.0 metres), next to and in the Village D. Gjugjance, between RP9 and RP10.

•

Non-captured spring (Q < 0.1 l/s) in the form of diffuse flow right next to the group of active holes, on the west side of the hill "Red Forest", between RP9 and RP10

•

Temporary marshes near “Boshkov i Drenov Dol", between RP9 and RP10

•

Drilled well (for irrigation) (Q – unknown), near the stream “Pavlev Doll”, before RP11

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

•

Pipe under pressure, with a reservoir, from "Pavlev Dol" to the vinyards near the location "Kampur", between RP10 and RP11

•

Non-captured spring (Q – 0.3 l.s) in “Mugrashki Dol”Stream, between RP11 and RP12

•

Group of dug wells (depth = 8 - 10 metres) in village Kosmatec, after RP12

•

Temporary marsh near “Novoselski greben”, between RP12 and RP13

•

Shallow dug well (depth = 4.2 metres) near the location “Orlovac”, between RP12 and RP13

•

Temporary marsh and group of dug wells (depth = 3.5 – 4.5 metres) near Village Chukinska Maala, between RP13 and RP14

•

Captured spring (Q – unknown), on the left side of the route, bellow the location “Zebrnjak”, near RP14

•

Group of dug and drilled wells (depth = 2 -3 metres) and 2 reservoirs in Village Adjina Maala, between RP14 and RP15

•

Group of shallow dug wells (depth = 2 -3 metres) and a reservoir in Village Jarebichari, between RP14 and RP15

•

Group of shallow dug wells (depth = 3 - 5 metres) and a reservoir in Village Staro Nagorichane, between RP14 and RP15

•

Subterranean gravity pipeline for water supply, from Village Nikuljane to Village Jarebichari, between RP14 and RP15

•

Captured karst spring (tap) (Q = 0.1 – 10 l/s) and drilled well for exploitation (52 metres, Q ~ 10 l/s) in Village Nikuljane, between RP14 and RP15

•

Non-captured temporary spring (Q – unknown) near RP15

•

Non-captured spring (Q – 0.3 l.s) in Village Sejdina Maala, between RP15 and RP16.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

3.3.3

Engineering - Geological Characteristics of the Area

The terrain along the route of the transmission line, from engineering - geological aspect consists of (i) non coherent, (ii) poorly coherent and (iii) highly coherent rock masses. (i)

Non Coherent Rock Masses

In this group of loosely coherent rock masses along the route of the transmission line, we can emphasize the following: •

Lake sediments (j). These sediments are rare along the route of the transmission line, or more precisely, they occur only near the reference point RP12. They consist of big, well-rounded boulders of quartz and quartzite, and various shales mixed with sand and silt. These are loose, non-compacted and porous materials.

•

Marsh sediments (b). They are made of organogenic fine grain silts. They are present in the valleys of temporary flows Boshkov Dol and Drenov Dol, south of RP10. They feature with medium to very good compaction. They can be unfavourable ground for foundation of heavy constructions.

•

Alluvial sediments (al). They can be found along the Rivers Luka and Pchinja, i.e. at the RP11 and RP13. They consist of large-grain cobbles and gravel The material is medium to well rounded and well compacted and sorted. These sediments possess high filtration characteristics and are quite porous. The thickness of these sediments is estimated at more than 3 metres.

•

Terrace sediments (t1). They are noticed along the valley of River Pchinja, around RP 13 hanging from a height of 5-10 metres above the river level. They consist of cobbles and sands, well rounded and weak to medium sorted.

•

Proluvial sediments (pr). They cover almost the entire terrain between reference point RP3 and RP7. The proluvium characterizes with large grain cobbles and stones, not rounded or partially rounded, weakly sorted and mixed with clay and sand materials weakly to medium compacted. The porosity is intergranular due to the larger coarse grains. Compared to deluvial material, they are more porous. The thickness of these sediments reaches up to 10 m.

•

Deluvial sediments (b). They represent decomposed and friable layer consisting mostly of paleogenic sediments. From engineering geological aspect they are not well rounded and sorted. Their thickness is quite variable, between 2-10 metres.

•

Pliocene sediments (Pl3?). They spread along the northern part of the route of the transmission line, from RP13 towards RP14 and approximately 8 km to the north, near Village Nikuljane. They consist of sands, clays and big masses of rubble sediments that alternate vertically. (ii)

Poorly Coherent Rock Masses

Poorly coherent rock masses are the ones that consist of particles smaller than 0.002 mm. The most typical representatives are clays and marls. They are very frequent along the route, but most visible are in the Pliocene sediments, in sand and clay series (Pl3). From engineering geological aspect, they represent an environment where various appearances may occur, such as: swelling, consolidated depressions, supplanting, dragging down (due to the terrain morphology where they occur, this is excluded), exceeding the carriage capacity, etc. Very often, there is a need for improvement of their characteristics.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

(iii)

Highly Coherent Rock Masses

In this type of rock masses, between the grains there are mostly solid crystallized connections. Along the route of the transmission line, within this group there are several types of rocks that are important from engineering geological aspect: •

Sericite shales (Sse) They actually present the border between the Serbian – Macedonian masiff and the Vardar zone. They are mostly present in the northern part of the route of the transmission line, between RP15 and RP16. Their colour depends on the mineral contents, but most often they are grayish-brown and green. In the suface zones they are full of cracks, broken and weathered. The largest part of their line along the route of the transmission line is covered by small layer of dust and sand mixed with pieces of the indigenous rock.

•

Sericite and Fylite shales (F). They are present north of Village Nikuljane or approximately 3.5 km south of RP15. They occur in thin layers and plates, very often stratified between the marbles. From a tectonic point of view, thay are quite damaged and broken, so, they often form delluvial layer during the weathering of the indigenous rock (in situ) which can be thick from 2 cm to 2 m.

•

Metamorphic sandstones (Sca). They are present north of the fylite shale, with which they alternate vertically and horizontally.

•

Migmatites (Mi). They are present in the north part of the route of the transmission line on the Serbian territory. They are actually large grain gneiss with explicit fenocrystals of feldspars, the colour of which is very original (gray and pink). From engineering and geological point of view, the most important thing is that on the surface thay are crushed and damaged until the gruss fascia.

•

Marbles (M). They are present in several locations, in block divided masses, as part of the Kachanik - Veles series (south of RP15, until the Village Nikuljane) and also as isolated masses on both banks of RIver Pchinja (south of RP13). They can be white, grayish-white and gray. From engineering and geological aspect, they are quite damaged, with numerous cracks and holes. They are covered with silt and clay materials mixed with pieces of marble. Local deluvial cover exceeds the thickness of 2 metres.

•

Flyisch series (4E3, 3E3). They cover a large area along the route of the transmission line, from RP1 to RP3, around RP4 and RP5, around RP9 and RP10 and from RP11 in the north-west direction, in length of 10 km to RP12 (Village Zubovce). They are presented with clay, sandstones, marls and carbonates. Their colour can vary between gray, grayish-green and grayish-blue. From engineering geological point of view, they can swell, which may cause land sliding, crumbles of rocks, surface disintegration and washing out. The thickness of these sediments exceeds 1,500 metres.

•

Andesite tuffs (θ). These are grayish-white to yellow rock masses that on the surface are quite damaged, where alteration processes take place. They are located between Village Gjugjanci and Village Orel, at RP9.-{}-

•

Ignimbrites (θα). These are massive rocks with explicit stratification. They are grayishwhite to yellow. On the surface they are quite damaged and disintegrated to wethered. Along the route of the transmission line, they are located at approximately 2 km northwest of RP9.

•

Volcanic breccias (ω’). They consist of coarse pieces of andesite that are irregularly scattered throught the matrix of the rock. Very often there are various alterations and hydro-thermal changes. They are noticed along the route between RP8 and RP9, with small interruptions of andesite tuffs between them.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

•

3.3.4

Kyanite and Basalt (τβ). They are noticed in the most southern parts of the route, between RP2 and RP3 (location “Ezhevo Brdo”), where there is an active quarry for excavation of these volcanites. Also, they are present north of RP14, in the area of Mlado Nagorichane. There are 8 plates of massive basalt, with layers of spongy magma, which as a rare phenomenon, due to their importance in the scientific and research activities and the first class scenery composition, are placed on the proposed list for monument of nature. In the meantime, this location has been exposed to antropogenic influence (exploitation) due to the wide use of basalt as construction material. They can be found in gray, black and reddish colour, with massive texture and porfiric structure. Contemporary and Registered Engineering - Geological Appearances and Processes

As a result of the wide spectrum of egsogenic influences (physical, mechanical, chemical and antropogenic), a large number of contemporary engineering geological processes and appearances occur, which are noticed along the route of the transmission line. Upon the engineering geological investigation, the following processes and appearances have been registered: •

Surface disintegration. For these processes and appearances, several factors have been the cause (climate factors, tectonic conditions, resistence of rocks to decomposition, etc.) As a whole, almost the entire terrain undergoes the process of surface decomposition. Products that are obtained from these processes are larger blocks, crushed stones, smaller stones separated from the massive rocks.

•

Erosion. By washing out, under the influence of various external factors, decomposion and movement of the decomposed rock material occur. While under the influence of strong water flows and rains, the eroded material is transported to the foothills of the mountain as a consequence of multiple and long-term washing out of eroded materials, and creates ravines, that are very frequent phenomenon along the route of the transmission line.

•

Processes of landfall and landslide This is a process where earth masses are detached from the ground and they move under the gravitation influence and their own weight. In this terrain (along the route of the transmission line), there are numerous old or settled drag-downs, but also active and potentially dangerous after the construction of the route.

Along the route of the transmission line, the following engineering geological appearances and processes have been registered: •

The terrain of the route of the transmission line between RP1 and RP5, from engineering geological point of view is quite stable, with the exception of occurrence of temporary marshes in several locations. Therefore, there are no significant engineering geological processes and appearances that could endanger the construction of the transmission line in this part of the route.

•

At RP5, approximately 400 m to the north, there is a big ravine, long 70-80 metres and wide 10 metres. The depth of this ravine varies from 2 to 6 m, and locally even more. It is filled with material of the indigineous rock (sandstone and clay).

•

The terrain from RP5 to RP8 is stable with rare marshed at approximately 2 km southeast from RP7. Slightly to the south, there is a gorge near the River Mechkuevska with enormous dimensions (50 m wide and 30 m deep). Near RP8, north of Village Nemanjica, there are intensive process of formation of ravines on the terrain, as well as occurrence of 2 larger drag-downs, of which one is positioned on the very route of the transmission line (approximately 200 m south of RP8). This is old, or so called settled 62

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

landslide, which is 400-500 m wide, with a central body of 100-150 m. The height of the frontal crack is 30-40 m. Currently, the body of the landslide is arable land, while at the end of the drag-down there is a forest (probably with the aim of preventing landslide). South-east of the landslide there are three holes with different dimensions, 250-350 m, located in the andensite tuffs. Between the first and the second one (viewed from south to the north) the material slides, but it is of a smaller scope than the above described. •

Bellow RP9 there is an intensive process of creation of ravines and landslide of the material. The entire terrain, in length of 700-800 metres is a fossile landslide in andensite tuffs. The body of the landslide is covered with rare low trunk and grass vegetation, which points to the fact that the material has not been moving for a long time. The terrain between RP9 and RP13 spreads in flysch sediments, except around RP10, where the route passes through deluvial sediments. From engineering geological aspect, there are processes of formation of ravines, surface decomposition of materials, followed by short transportation of decomposed material under the influence of surface flows and gravitation forces, by the marshes and gorges.

•

East of Village Gjugjance (between RP9 and RP10) there is a process of ravine formation and surface decomposition of the material - andensite breccias.

•

In the same line between RP9 and RP10, there is process of active ravine formation flysch sandstones and clay, on the west side of the hill "Red forest". Here, there are several wide (5 – 20 m) and deep )5 – 15 m) ravines, which hypsometrically passes into one ravine (length – 150 m, depth -~ 3 m, width 2-4 m).

•

At approximately 300 m south-east of RP12 or approximately 170-180 m normally of the route line, there is a smaller landslide of materials in Eocene sediments. The landslide is 50 m wide and 80 m long. The height of the frontal crack is 6-7 m. The material in the landslide is covered by rare low-trunk vegetation and grass.

•

The terrain from RP14 until 8 km north of RP15 (Village Nikuljane) is completely covered with Pliocen sediments with no significant engineering and geological appearances, except rare and short ravines and gorges. The exception is one ravine, at the route of the transmission line, south of Village Krstichanska Maala, with length of ~100 m, width –10 m, depth up to 8 m.

•

The line from Village Nikuljane to Rp15 is completely positioned on solid rock masses (marbles, fylites and sandstones). There are only few gorges in the fylites and sandstones, but they are not problematic, from engineering geological point of view.

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3.4

Tectonics and Seismics of the Area

3.4.1

Tectonic Conditions in the Area

The territory of the Republic of Macedonia is only a small part of the Balkan region and covers an area of 25,713 km2, where several tectonic units of first line (I) of the AlpsHimalayan belt are included. Based on the existing principles for tectonic regionalization, the western part of the territory of the Republic of Macedonia, including Povardarie (as a geographical term), belongs to the Dinarides-Helinides. The mountainous terrains and valley depressions in the eastern part of Macedonia are segments of the middle SerbianMacedonian massif. Along the border with the Republic of Bulgaria, a separate zone is present, known as Kraishe zone, which belongs to the Carpatian-Balkanides. Within the borders of the Dinarides-Helinides, on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia, there are several tectonic zones, characterized by their specific tectonic elements and geological evolution. I.

Vardar zone

II.

Pelagonian horst-anticlinorium

III. West Macedonian zone IV. Cukali-Krasta zone In eastern Macedonia, within the borders of the Serbian-Macedonian massif (V), there are several isolated blocks (Belasica, Ograzhden-Malesh, Osogovo, German and others) which are divided by secondary depressions. The Kraishte zone (VI) on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia covers a narrow belt along the border with the Republic of Bulgaria, from Berovo – south, to Delchevo - north, where it spreads on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria to the north. The tectonic regionalisation of the Republic of Macedonia is presented in the following picture. Wider area of the route of the transmission line belongs to the eastern side (sub-zone) of the Vardar tectonic zone, near its border with the Serbian-Macedonian massif. Vardar Tectonic Zone The Vardar tectonic zone represents an important tectonic unit. With its internal structure, the presence of various formations, the presence of magmatogenic, metamorphic and sediment complexes and the morphology of fault dislocations, the Vardar zone is very distinctive. According to concepts of modern tectonic theory – tectonics of plates, this zone is subduction zone, which moves to the east bellow the Serbian-Macedonian massif. This zone divides the Pelagonian massif and the West Macedonia zone on the west from the Serbian-Macedonian massif on the east. Its width, in east-west direction varies between 60 km - 80 km. It also contains fragments of pre-Cambrian earth crust, Palaeozoic volcanic sediment complex and Mesozoic magmatism, and manifests differentiated activity of tectonic movements in various segments.

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Depending on the locations where certain formations spread, especially of the Alps complex, in the Vardar zone there are three subzones: √ western, where the Alps complex is the richest with carbon flysch. √ middle, where the Jura-ofiolitic complex is predominant, along with the middle Alps complex (Eocene flysch). √ eastern, where the Jura granite is predominant, with the most expressive Pyrenean and Sava orogenic phase in post-Eocene period. Picture - Tectonic Regions in the Republic of Macedonia Transmission route

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Map of tectonic-structural segments in Vardar tectonic zone is presented in the following picture.

Source: Tectonics of Maceodnia, Milan Arsovski, Ph.D., 1997

Serbian-Macedonian Masiff The Alps orogenic belt of the Balkan, that is the Serbian-Macedonian massif is an internal massif, which divides the Alps systems – on the east side – Dinarides-Helnides, and on the eastern side Carpatho-Balkanides. As a middle massif, consisting mainly of pre-Alps structural complexes, the Serbian-Macedonian massif spreads from Danube in the north, through the entire territory of FR Yugoslavia and R. Macedonia until Halkidiki (R. Greece) to the south. Its width on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia varies between 60-80 km. On this territory, it covers an area of approximately 3,500 km2. On its western side it had the Vardar zone, and on its eastern side, on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, it connects with the Rhodope Mountains (i.e. the Pirin structures).

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

The Serbian-Macedonian massif is rich in pre-Cambrian and rifey-Cambrian complexes. The first are presented by stone complexes of amphibiotic fascia: gnays, mika schists, leptinolites, while the second ones are presented with the fascia of green shales, chloritesericites shales, metagabbro, metadiabase, etc. Relations between the structural forms of various complexes which participate in the construction of the Serbian-Macedoinan massif make it clearly distinct from the neighbouring tectonic units. The map of structural segments in the Serbian-Macedonian massif (including the Kraishte zone) is presented in the following picture.

Source: Tectonics of Macedonia, Milan Arsovski, Ph.D., 1997

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Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

3.4.2

Neotectonic Regions

The territory of the Republic of Macedonia is completely part of the Mediterranean orogenic area, where the geo-synclinal conditions for development had ended at the end of Palaeogene, i.e. in the beginning of Neogene. Afterwards follows a continental development. During the first phase of this period, in the Miocene, levels are formed of the created structures of the Pyrenean and Sava zone, then follows Pineplenisation and formation of flat surfaces by denudation. Relicts of these flat surfaces are present even today at different altitudes in the mountain massifs, or they are buried in the sunk part bellow the Pliocene layers. During the first stage of the Neogene, actually in the middle of Miocene, the first depressions had occurred, where marls and clays sediments created layers. This, points to the fact that at that time, there was no hill relief that could have created rough clastic material. During the second phase of this period, other volcanic areas had been formed, but with smaller dimensions. During the Pliocene, the tectonic processes had been more active, thus creating morphostrucutral parts, which as the result of the further development, could be found even nowadays. As the result of uneven raise, there is a differentiation on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia, which in some way has inherited features. The territory of Western Macedonia, where the rising tendency had existed long time ago, today also shows a tendency of rising more intensively than the other parts. At the same time, the terrain of Vardar zone, now belonging to the area known as Povardarie, show weaker rising intensity. On the other hand, the areas in Eastern Macedonia rise relatively more intensively compared to Povardarie, but still with lesser intensity than in Western Macedonia. The trend of the general Pliocene rising, tectonic and shelf depressions, in the form of lake basins continued. The shelf lake depressions in Western Macedonia are part of the group of Desaret Lakes. Relicts of this period are the Ohrid and Prespa Lakes. The higher terrains represent areas of erosion and denudation, which generate terrigenous material, which is deposited as mud in lake depressions. The process of differential movements between depressions and horsts, in time is covered by layer of earth, due to which activation of old and formation of new faults occur, as natural borders of morphostructural wholes. At the end of the Pliocene period and the beginning of the Quarter, with the formation of the Aegean Sea, the contemporary hydrographical network had been formed, the tectonic activities had become more intensive which created the forms as they are today. The volcanic activity had ended at the beginning of the Quarter with the establishment of basalt, in Stip region, near Nagorichani, in Skopje region and other locations. As a result of the aforementioned processes, with which the genesis and evolution of morphostructural wholes is related, on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia the following neotectonic areas can be mentioned, according to the level of rising: 1. Western Macedonia 2. Povardarie 3. Eastern Macedonia

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Picture - Neo-Tectonic Regions in the Republic of Macedonia Transmission route

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3.4.3

Seismic Conditions in the Area

The region that covers the territory of the Republic of Macedonia and areas up to 100 km of its borders, from a tectonic point of view, belongs to the Mediterranean orogenic area of Alps-Himalayan belt. Conditioned by this tectonic characteristic, the seismic activities of this region are one of the strongest on the continental part of the Balkan peninsula. Destructive earthquakes are relatively frequent in this region, reaching intensity in the epicentre of up to X MSK-64 and magnitude of 7.8 (the highest to date recorded magnitude on the Balkan Peninsula) Earthquakes in this region are mostly shallow (h ≤ 60 km), the hypocenters of which is up to 40 km, and most often 20 km. Over the time, concentration of epicentres takes place into special epicentre areas, and connection of these areas into seismic zones. These zones, with their epicentre areas and all historical and contemporary earthquakes define the seismic features of the analyzed region in the Republic of Macedonia. Three seismogenic zone define the seismic features of the wider region. √ The first of them is in direction of the valley of River Vardar, it covers epicentre areas from the Republic of Serbia, Republic of Macedonia and Republic of Greece, and is connected to the tectonic unit Vardar Zone (part of Dinarides-Helinides). Therefore, in the seismologic and seismo-tectonic literature it is referred to as Vardar seismogenic zone.

√ The second seismogenic zone is connected to the Ograzhden-Halkidiki tectonic zone (a large part of Serbian-Macedonia massif and small part of the Kraishte zone of Carpatho-Balkanides zone). This seismogenic zone covers epicentre areas of the Republic of Serbia, Republic of Macedonia, Republic of Bulgaria and Republic of Greece. Along its eastern edge, the valley of River Struma is located and this is reason why it is called Struma seismogenic zone.

√ The third seismogenic zone covers epicentre areas of the Republic of Serbia, Republic of Macedonia, Republic of Albania and Republic of Greece. Its final northeast part spreads along the river White Drim, and its upper western part – along the river Black Drim and the basin of these two rivers, the River Drim. Due to this, this seismic zone is called Drim seismogenic zone. Thus, the seismic features of the territory of the Republic of Macedonia and border areas are defined by three main longitude seismogenic zones (Struma, Vardar and Drim). Wider area of the route of the transmission line belongs to the epicentre areas Stip-Sv. NIkole and Kumanovo, on the eastern side of Vardar seismogenic zone, near its border with Struma seismogenic zone. Bearing in mind the regional context of seismic activity and the influence of earthquakes on objects at significant distance, in the text bellow a presentation is given of the two seismogenic zones that are relevant for the route of the transmission line.

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Vardar Seismogenic Zone Epicentre areas in this seismogenic zone are the following: Skopje, Kumanovo, Veles, Sveti Nikole – Stip, Stip- Radovish, Gradsko – Kavadarci – Negotino), Demir Kapija, Mrezhichko (Kavadarci), Valandovo, Gevgelija – Gumendja and Doyran Kukush. The following table shows a summary of the distribution of earthquakes from epicentre areas of the Vardar seismogenic zone in the Republic of Macedonia and bordering areas during the period 1901 – 1966. (magnitude ML ≥ 4.0).

Both seismogenic zones where the route of the transmission line passes through, Sveti Nikole – Stip and Kumanovo, feature with insignificant seismic activity. In Vardar seismogenic zone, the most significant earthquakes have the magnitude of 5,0 ≤ ML < 6,0. The strongest historical and the strongest contemporary earthquakes, with ML ≥ 6,0, happened in the same epicentre areas, Uroshevac (Kachanik – Vitina – Gnjilane), Skopje and Valandovo. These three epicentre areas are seismically the most active in Vardar seismogenic zone on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia and bordering regions.

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Struma Seismogenic Zone In the area of this seismogenic zone, that spreads on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia and bordering regions the following epicentre areas are included: Zletovo, Kochani, Delchevo - Berovo, Pehchevo - Kresna and Strumica. The following table shows a summary of the distribution of earthquakes from epicentre areas of the Struma seismogenic zone in the Republic of Macedonia and bordering areas during the period 1901 – 1966. (magnitude ML ≥ 4,0).

Generally speaking, Struma seismogenic zone in the Republic of Macedonia and bordering areas features with rare strong earthquakes compared to other main seismogenic zones in the Republic of Macedonia and with continuous occurrence of very weak earthquakes. However, this zone accumulates in itself the largest seismic energy in the Republic of Macedonia and the entire continental part of the Balkan Peninsula, which is released mostly through the epicentre area of Pehchevo – Kresna. The picture shows a map of seismogenic sources on the territory of the Republic of Macedonia. Transmission route

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3.5

Hydrography and Quality of Surface Waters in the Area

Wider area of the corridor where the route of the 400 kV interconnection transmission line spreads is part of the territory of two bigger regional basins: •

The basin of River Bregalnica, with the following rivers: (i) River Sudichka, (ii) Rivers Stanulovska and Burilovska, (iii) River Nemanjica, (iv) Rivers Orelska and Mavrovica, (v) River Madzarica and (vi) the rivulets Boshkov Dol and Drenov Dol An accumulation was built on the River Mavrovica, near the place Alin Dol, which covers an area of 7 km2 and volume of 2.7 million m3. The accumulation is used for water supply of Sveti Nikole.

•

The basin of River Pchinja, with the following rivers: (i) River Luka, (ii) Vranjak), (iii) Murgashki Brook, (iv) Slatinski Dol, (v) Serava Brook, (vi) Muralovski Dol and (vii) Sejdin Dol.

With the Decree on Classification of Waters, and based on the purpose and level of purity, the surface waters (waterflows, lakes and accumulations) and ground waters are classified in the following classes: Class I

II

III

IV

Use / Purpose of the water Class of very clean, oligotrophic water which in natural condition and eventual disinfection may be used for drinking and for production and processing the food products, as well as for spawning of noble types of fish – salmonides. The buffering capacity of the water is very good. It is constantly saturated with oxygen, contains low level of nutrients and bacteria, and very low level of anthropogenic pollution with organic substances (but not inorganic). Class of water with low level of pollution, mesotrophic water, which in natural condition may be used for bathing and recreation, for water sports, for spawning other types of fish (cyprindae) , or which by regular methods of processing and conditioning (coagulation, filtration, disinfection and alike) may be used for drinking and production of food products. The buffering capacity and saturation of water with oxygen during the whole year are good. The present burdening may lead to insignificant increase of primary productivity. Class of moderately eutrophic water, which in natural condition may be used for irrigation, and after regular methods of processing (conditioning) it can also be used in the industry where there is no need of water with drinking quality, The buffering capacity in weak, but it preserves the acidity of the water to levels that are still adequate for most of the fish. Occasionally, there is deficiency of oxygen. The level of primary production is significant, and some changes in the structure of the community can be noticed, including the types of fish. The burdening with harmful substances is evident, as well as the microbiological pollution. Concentration of harmful substances varies from natural level to level of chronic poisoning in relation to the water life. Class of very eutrophic, polluted water, which in natural conditions may be used for other purposes, but only after certain type of processing. The buffering capacity exceeds the limits, which leads to larger acidity levels that have impact on the development of younger generation. In the epilimnion, the level of oxygen is too high, while in the hypolimnion the level of oxygen is too low. Flourishing of algae is noticed.

Natural and man-made waterflows, sections of waterflows, lakes, accumulations and ground waters, the water of which, according to its purpose and level of purity are classified into classes, according to the Decree on categorisation of waters, are classified into five categories: Category I - waterflows, whose waters must meet the conditions of the I class; Cateogry II – conditions of the II class; Category III - conditiosn of the III class; Category IV - conditions of the IV class and Cateogry V - waterflows whose waters must meet the conditions of the V class.

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The pollution of rivers and rivulets on the route of the transmission line comes from the communal wastewater from inhabited places and pollution from stock breeding and agricultural activities. The quality of surface waters in the direct surrounding of the route of the transmission line is not significantly deteriorated by discharges from industrial activities. In absence of data concering the quality of water in waterflows on the territory of the corridor of the transmission line, in continuation we present the conditions regarding the quality of water in River Bregalnica and Pchinja, as basic hydrographic entities in the wider region. The quality characteristics of the water in River Bregalnica are measured at two locations: location Krupishte (Dolen Balvan) and location Ubogo. The quality characteristics of the water in River Pchinja are measured at two locations: location Pelince and location Spa Katlanovo. Map – Network of measuring locations for monitoring the quality of surface waters

Bregalnica

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River Bregalnica Organoleptic indicators at both measuring locations show values for I – IV class. Here the water is more frequently muddy. From acidity indicators, pH has values for I class at both measuring locations. Alkalinity has the value for I – II class at the measuring location Dolen Balvan, while at the measuring location Ubogo, it has the values for I class. Indicators of oxygen regime show that the oxygen more often reaches the values for the I class water. The saturation with oxygen has the following values: 83.8 – 132.3% O2 at the location Dolen Balvan, and it is estimated as IV-II class, while at the location Ubogo, it varies between 83.1 - 121.1 % O2 Biological consumption of oxygen varies from 1.25 - 11.5 mg/l O2 at the location Dolen Balvan, to 2.0 – 22.5 mg/l O2 at Ubogo. Thus, in the upper flow of the river, this paramtere has value for III - IV class, while in the lower flow, at Ubogo, there is deterioration of the quality, with value for IV – V class. The total quantity of dissolved substances more often have value for the I class, while the total suspended substances has the values for IV – V class at the measuring location Dolen Balvan. In the lower flow of River Bregalnica, at the measuring location Ubogo, the total dissolved substances have values for II class, while the total quantity of suspended substances - for III – IV class. Indicators of eutrofication at both measuring locations have values for the II class. Chemical indicators of fecal pollution have values for I – II class, except for the nitrite ion, which at both measuring locations has values for III - IV class. The examined chemical and toxic substances have values for the I - II class. At the measuring location Dolen Balvan, the mangane more often has values for III - IV class, while the cadmium temporarily occurs with values for III - IV class. River Pchinja Indicators for the oxygen regime show that the dissolved oxygen at both measuring locations more frequently has values for the I class, with maximum average annual concentration above 10 mg/l. Biological five-day consumption of oxygen is adequate to III—IV class. At both measuring locations, the chemical consumption of oxygen varies between 2.6 mg/l to 5.0 mg/l, which corresponds to II class. Indicators of eutrofication at the masuring location Katlanovo Spa corresponds to water with moderately to increasingly eutrophic character, compared to the measuring location Pelince, where the water is of I - II class. Concerning the dangerous and harmful substances, the quality of water in River Pchinja corresponds to I – II class.

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Picture – Review of concentration of hazardous and harmful substances in waterflows for 2007

Source: Annual report of processed data concerning the quality of the environment – 2007, MEPP

Picture – Review of concentration of hazardous and harmful substances in waterflows for 2008

Source: Annual report of processed data concerning the quality of the environment – 2008, MEPP

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3.6

Air Quality in the Area

The limit values and types of polluting substances in the air are presneted in the tables bellow: Table – Limit values for protection of ecosystems and vegetation Polluting substances

Protection

Average period

Limit value

Sulphur dioxide - SO2

Ecosystems

Year winter period

20 µg/m³

Nitrogen oxide (NO + NO2)

Vegetation

Year

30 µg/m³

Source: Annual report of processed data concerning the quality of the environment – 2008, MEPP

Table - Limit values for protection of ecosystems and vegetation

Polluting substances

Sulphur dioxide - SO2 Nitrogen dioxide PM10 Carbon monoxide Lead C6H6

Average period

Limit value that has to be achieved in 2012

1 hour 24 hours 1 hour 1 year 24 hours 1 year Maximum daily 8hour average value 1 year 1 year

350 µg/m³ 125 µg/m³ 200 µg/m³ 40 µg/m³ 50 µg/m³ 40 µg/m³ 10 mg/m³ 0.5 µg/m³ 5 µg/m³

Permitted number of exceeded values during the year 24 3 18 0 35 0 0

Limit value for 2008

0 0

470 µg/m³ 125 µg/m³ 280 µg/m³ 56 µg/m³ 67 µg/m³ 54 µg/m³ 15 µg/m³ 0.9 µg/m³ 9 µg/m³

Source: Annual report of processed data concerning the quality of the environment – 2008, MEPP

The air quality in the Republic of Macedonia is monitored by the following institutions: •

Health Care Institues in Skopje and Veles The monitoring network of these institutions include 10 measuring locations, seven in Skopje and three in Veles. At the measuring locations, the concentration of SO2 and black smoke is measured.

•

Hydrometeorological Administration The monitoring network of this institution includes 19 measuring locations, of which 9 are in Skopje. The remaining 10 are located in the following towns: Berovo, Bitola, Tetovo, Gevgelija, Kumanovo, Ohrid, Prilep, Stip, Veles and Village Lazaropole. At the measuring locations, concentration of SO2 and black smoke is measured.

•

Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning The monitoring network of the Ministry includes 13 fixed automatic measuring stations. In Skopje, there are 4 stations, 2 stations in Bitola and Veles, and 1 in each of the following towns: Kichevo, Kochani, Kumanovo, Tetovo and Village Lazaropole. These stations measure the ecological parameters: CO, SO2, nitrogen oxides NOx, suspended particles PM10 and ozone О3.

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Assessment of Air Quality along the Transmission Line Route The predominant part of the corridor along the route spreads through rural areas. Bearing this in mind, as well as the fact that no data are available from measurements of air pollution in the immediate area along the route, it can be assumed that the air along the route of the transmission line is of good quality, first of all because of the nature of the area and the distance from the main polutors – industrial facilities and the main traffic infrastructure in the region.

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3.7

Noise in the Environment of the Area

Emmission of noise in the environment is related to the development of the technology, industry and transport. According to the Law on Noise Protection in the Environment (2007) the noise in the environment is the noise produced by undesired or harmful external sound created by human activities, imposed in the surrounding and causes anxiety and unpleasant feelings. Here, we can also include the noise produced by means of transport - road, railway and air transport and the noise from industrial activities. The anxiety caused by noise means anxiety due to emission of a sound which is frequent and/or long-lasting, created at a certain time and place that prevents or has impact on the regular activities and functions, concentration, rest and sleep of people. Anxiety caused by noise is defined by the level of anxiety of population caused by noise measured on the terrain or by making inspection. The upper values of basic indicators of noise in the environment are defined in the Regulation on Limit Values of Noise Level (2008). According to the degree of noise protection, the border values for basic noise indicators in the environment caused by various sources may not be higher than the following: Level of noise expressed in dB

Area differentiated according to the level of noise protection

Ld 50 55 60 70

First degree area Second degree area Third degree area Fourth degree area o o o

Le 50 55 60 70

Ln 40 45 55 60

Ld – day (period from 07,00 to 19,00 h) Le – evening (period from 19,00 to 23,00 h) Ln – night (period from 23,00 to 07.00 h)

Areas according to the degree of noise protection are defined in the Regulation on Locations of Measuring Stations and Measuring Spots (2008): o

Area with first (I) degree of nosie protection is the area intended for tourism and leisure activities, area near hospital institutions and area of national parks and natural reserves.

o

Area with second (II) degree of noise protection is the area intended for stay, i.e. residential area, areas near educational facilities, facilities for social welfare and accommodation of children and older people, and facilities for primary health care, playgrounds and public parks, grean areas, recreation areas and local parks.

o

Area with third (III) degree of noise protection is the area where the noise is permitted, i.e. trade – business – residential areas, which are intended both for living and working, (mixed area), areas for agricultural activities, public centres with trade, catering, adminstrative and other facilities.

o

Area with fourth (IV) degree of noise protection is the area where noise is permitted: areas that have no residential buildings, intended for industrial and craftsman activities, production activities, transport activities, storage and servicing, communal activites that produce noise.

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The Decision for determing the cases and conditions that may be considered as disturbing noise (2009) identifies the activities during which noise is produced and exceeds the limit values of the noise, thus disturbing the peace of citizens. Due to the lack of developed national monitoring netowrork, there are no data concerning the levels of noise in the environment along the route of the power line. Consequently, there are no planning documents for noise management, i.e. a strategic map and an action plan. Due to the nature of the area and the forms of the land use along the transmission line, the areas in its vicinity, according to the level of noise protection can be classified in the areas of II and III degree of protection. According to the distance from the main noise emitters, it can be concluded that the area around the route of the transmission line in terms of the noise level, is in the permitted limits, without continuous presence of noise produced by anthropogenic sources and activities.

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3.8

Ecological Components, Biodiversity and Conservation Status

3.8.1

Introduction

There are number of habitats, plant communities, plant and animal species along the route of the transmission line. The route of the transmission line passes through a small part of an EMERALD area (Ovce Pole) and passes by the monuments of nature – MN Nemanjici (Sveti Nikole) and MN Mlado Nagoricane. The endemic plant Celtis tourneforti was registerd in MN Mlado Nagoricane, however the route of the transmission line is far from its habitat. The route of the transmission line crosses river Pcinja (the section between village Zubovce and RP 13). The valley of this river is a sub-regional bird migratory route and contributory to the main migratory pattern in the Balkan Peninsula - Vardar – Morava corridor. Birds pass along this corridor during their migration between Northern Europe and Eastern Africa. The valorization of the botanic and fauna values is made according several international criteria: (i) IUCN Red List of threatened Plant species (Walter and Gillet, 1998), (ii) EU Habitat Directive 92/43 EEC, (iii) Bern Convention & Bonn Convention, (iv) CORINE, (v) EMERALD, (vi) CITES etc. There are over 250 registered plant taxons (fall aspect), of different plant communities and habitat types that evolve along the route of the transmission line. The overview of the registered taxons is given in Annex 4. Among them, the following 3 Macedonian endemic species are considered to have greatest botanical value: (i) Salvia jurisicii Košanin, (ii) Verbascum lesnovoensis Micev. and (iii) Onobrychys megalophylla Boiss., and two species that are on the world Red List: (i) (Salvia jurisicii Košanin and (ii) Alkanna pulmonaria Grisebach). The inventory of the fauna includes a larger number of invertebrats, mainly more aspective groups (butterflies, grasshoppers, dragons), other arthropods, snails and mussels, and all groups of vertebrates (amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. There is a large number of species found on the above-mentioned list of significant species identified through this chapter of the study for evaluation of environmental impact. Detailed examination of the biodiversity of the area in question is given in the sector study in Annex 3. 3.8.2

Biomes

Along the route of the transmission line, the present habitats, plant communities, the flora and fauna could be included in three separate biomes: •

Biome of the ponto-caspian steppes and forest-steppes (PCS)

•

Biome of Mediterranean semi deserts (MSD)

•

Biome of submediteranean-balkan forests (SBF)

The description and characteristics of each biome is given in the sector study in Annex 3.

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3.8.3

Habitats, Flora and Fauna

3.8.3.1 Biomes of Pontoon-Caspian Steppes and Forest-Steppes (PCS) (A)

Plant communities and habitats

The physiognomy of the biome in the subject area is defined by the steppe plant species Chrysopogon gryllus, Dichanthium ischaemum, Festuca vallesiaca, Festuca callieri, Agropyron cristatum, and other herbaceous plant species, that are part of hilly pastures kept in small slopping surfaces (Chrysopogon gryllus comm.), which rise above the vast corn fields and industrial crops. (B)

Flora - significant species

From the flora in the PCS, It is important to point out the local endemic species (Salvia jurisicii and Verbascum lesnovoensis), of which the Salvia jurisicii species is on the IUCN Red List (1998), and represents a Macedonian CORINE species. Therefore, they should be subject to special attention in terms of protection in all phases of design, construction and operation of the transmission line. Salvia jurisicii Košanin – cutleaf sage This is an endemic plant species, found on the World Red List, with very limited distribution in Republic of Macedonia, present only in the area between Stip and Sveti Nikole and the site Orlovo Brdo (near Negotino). Over 70% of the total populationof this endemic species in Republic of Macedonia is found in the area between Stip and Sveti Nikole. This species is registered in two sites along the route - between RP1 and RP2 (Chardaklija Jankov-Rid), and between RP4 and RP5 (Dolna Kopa - between v. Vrsakovo and v. Sudic). Verbascum lesnovoensis Micev. – lesnovos mullein This is an endemic species with restricted distribution, present near Probistip-Zletovo, Kratovo and the surroundings of Sveti Nikole. It grows in regions with human activity, on hilly pastures developed near farming land. During the field investigations, the following localities were registered along the route: section RP8 - RP9 (Cuculica - at altitude of the village Nemanjica) and section RP9 – RP10 (Shipo - above the village Orel: Nikoleva Niva-Kula). (C)

Fauna-significant species

There is as a record of 44 species from the group of butterflies (Lepidoptera), of which 12 species are of particular importance, and from them 4 are with higher, protective status (CORINE species) as well as species from the list of directives of the Council of Europe.

Global Threat Status GTS

European Threat Status ETS

SPEC PS-prime species

CORINE

Bern Conv.App.II

Hab. Dir. 92/43 Ann.II (HB2)

Hab. Dir. 92/43 Ann. IV (HB4)

Table - Analysis of more significant species of butterflies in the biome of the ponto-caspian steppes

Colias alfacariensis* Hipparchia senthes*

-

-

4b 4a

-

-

-

-

Limenitis populi

-

-

-

C

-

-

-

C

B2

HD2

HD4

Species

Lycaena dispar* Melanargia galathea*

-

-

4b

-

-

-

-

Neohipparchia statilinus*

-

-

4b

-

-

-

-

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Parnassius mnemosyne*

-

-

Plebeius argyrognomon

-

LR(nt)*

Polyommatus daphis*

-

-

Polyommatus dorylas*

-

Satyrium acacEIA* Zerynthia polyxena* * Registered species during field inventory

-

C

B2

-

HD4

-

-

-

-

4b

-

-

-

-

-

4b

-

-

-

-

-

4b -

C

-

-

HD4

From other groups of invertebrates (locusts, dragons, snails, etc.) there were no records of species with a verified status for protection. All species of reptile fauna, recorded during the field inventory have significant European status, or special interest for protection. Table - Valorization of reptiles in the biome of the ponto-caspian steppes Habitats Species IUCN Bern Directive Lacerta taurica – bull lizard IV E II Coluber caspius – large whipsnake IV LR III Natrix tessellata – water snake IV DD II Elaphe quatorlineata – rat snake II,IV V II Testudo greaca – mediteranen turtle II/IV V II

CITES

CORINE

II

C C C

There are 33 species of birds registered, of which, 23 species have special importance. Table - Valorization of birds in biome of ponto-caspian steppes Species SPEC ETS Alauda arvensis* - sky lark 3 V Anthus campestris – tawny pipit 3 V Aquila chrysaetos* – golden eagle 3 R Аquila heliaca* - royal eagle 1 E Burhinus oedicnemus* - stone curlew 3 V Buteo rufinus* - long-legged buzzered 3 (E) Calandrella cinerea* - red capped lark 3 V Circus macrourus – pallid harrier 3 E Columba oenas – stock dove 4 S Emberiza calandra*- corn bunting 4 S Falco tinnunculus* - kestrel 3 D Falco cherrug – saker falcon 3 E Falco naumanni – lesser kestrel 1 (V) Falco vespertinus* - red-footed falcon 3 V Galerida cristata* - crested lark 3 (D) Hirundo rustica – barn swallow 3 D Lanius collurio – red backed shrike 3 D Lanius minor*- grey shrike 2 D Melanocorypha calandra –Calandra lark 3 (D) Otis tarda – great bustard 1 D Perdix perdix* - partridge 3 V Recurvirostra avosetta – pied avocet 4/3w L Saxicola rubetra* - whinchat 4 S * Registered species during field inventory

WBD II/2 I I I I I I II/2 I I I I I II,III/1 I

Bern III III II II II II II II III III II II II II III II II II II II III II II

Bonn II II II II II

COR C C C C C C

II II II II

C C -

I&II II II

C C C C C

Small kestrel is not registered in any of the sites along the route (though there is a large number of them in the near environment, 5 km from the area, in the same biome). Reason for this is that the route of the transmission line is far from the populated areas where this 83

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species usually nests. Also, there are no records of pallid harrier, shelduck, pied avocet, black-winged stilt and great bustard. Golden eagle’s nest is registered near the v. Orel, a site with coordinates N: 41-56-50 / E: 21-59-50, and the imperial eagle’s nest is located near the v. Dolno Gjugjance (N: 41-57-08 / E:21-57-39). Typical species of mammals for this biome are Citellus citellus and Spalax leucodon, as well as those with steppe origin: Lepus capensis and Mus musculus. There are records of nests of Canis vulpes (fox), and a number of nests (holes) of social vole (Microtus socialis). The table shows valorization analysis of terrestrial mammals that can be found in the biome of the concerned area, and their valorization value. Table - Valorization of terrestrial mammals in the biomes of the ponto-caspian steppes Species CD Bern IUCN Citellus citellus – European ground squirel II,IV II Vu Lepus capensis - rabbit III lC

CORINE C -

Most of the bats in this region come for food, from the surrounding biotopes or during migration (daily or seasonal). The following table shows a valorization analysis for most affected species of bats as a group of mammals, that suffer mainly from collision with the wires of the transmission line in the phase of operation, or loosing parts of their habitats and hunting grounds. Table - Valorization of bats in the biome of the ponto-caspian steppes Species Eptesicus serotinus - serotine bat Miniopterus schraibersi - Schreiber’s' Bat Miotis blythi – lesser mouse-eared bat Miotis miotis – nocturnal bat Myotis mistacinus – whiskered bat Pipisterlus pipistrelus – dwarf bat Pipistrelus kuhli - Kuhl's Pipistrelle Pipistrelus nathusii - Nathusius' pipistrelle bat Rhinolophus blasii – blasius’s horseshoe bat

CD IV II, IV I, II, IV II, IV IV II, IV IV IV II, IV

Bern II II II II II III II II II

IUCN V V

CORINE C C C C C C C C

3.8.3.2 Biome of Mediterranean semi Deserts (МSD) (A)

Plant communities and habitats

The physiognomy of the biome in the subject area is defined by a greater number of plant species that represent important elements in the zone of hilly pastures. These species are adapted to extremely dry habitats - low soil and air humidity, shallow layer of soil, paleogene and neogene marl, rocky places, habitats with high concentration of salts in the surface (halophytic habitat) and others. Such is the case with the following plant species - Eryngium campestre, Morina persica, Carthamus lanatus, Dasypyrum villosum, Galium purpureum and others, after which these biomes are recognized and are used for their general characterization as part of their wider range. Within this biome, along the route of the transmission line, there are two habitats listed in the Habitat Directive: (i) EUNIS 1530 Panonic salt steppes and salt marshes, and (ii) EUNIS 6210 - Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia, * important Orcids sites).

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EUNIS 1530 – Panonic salt steppes and salt marshes The community - ass. Camphorosmetum monspeliacae Micev. 1965 is developed within this habitat. This rare halophytic community develops in the area between Stip and Sveti Nikole, in places with salted soils in Ovce Pole. Due to the strong human influence, and in order to obtain new arable areas, the places where it is developed, are ploughed over, and it is highly endangered. Distinctive species of the association is Camphorosma monspeliaca, very important species that prevents erosion of the places where this plant is developed. Along the route of the transmission line, population from this community is present between RP1RP2, RP6, RP7 and between RP8-RP9. EUNIS 6210 – Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco Brometalia, *important Orchids sites) This habitat includes communities from the zones of hilly pastures with limestone base that extend to large areas of the territory of Macedonia. The composition of this habitat includes endemic plant community ass. Astragalo-Morinetum Micevski 1971. The community Astragalo-Morinetum Micevski 1971 develops in the central parts of Macedonia, in steppe like areas (between Veles, Stip, and Negotino). It develops on paleogene marl, carbonate soil, strongly eroded places, where it covers large areas. Along the route, populations of this community are present between the RP1-RP5, RP8 and between-RP9. (B)

Flora-significant species

From the significant species, phyto-geograficly belonging to this particular biome, the local endemic species of Salvia jurisicii and Onobrychys megalophylla should be distinguished, as well as Alkanna pulmonaria, found on the world red list. The endemic species Salvia jurisicii is described in the previous chapter. Onobrychys megalophylla Boiss. – large-leaf esparcette This is an endemic species with limited distribution. Most of the findings are located in the central parts of Republic of Macedonia (Serta Mountain, the area of Negotino, Kavadarci, Sveti Nikole, Veles all the way to Skopje-Katlanovo). During the field research, it was registered only along the route - between RP5 and RP6 (Buchishte-above v. Mustafino toward v. Stanulovci). Alkanna pulmonaria Grisebach - alkanna This is a globally important species, listed on the World Red List (IUCN Red List, 1998). On the territory of Macedonia, it develops on hilly pastures, along the oak tree forests, all the way to the mountain pastures, on limestone and silicate surfaces, from 250-2200 meters. It is known for the canyon of r. Pcinja (Katlanovo, Kozle, Bader) canyon Taor, Kumanovo-along r.Pcinja near v. Dobrosane, Negotino-Krivolak, mountain Serta, Dojran, Kavadarci-Drenovo, Prilep-Pletvar, Kozjak, Sivec, Pelister, Galicica, Nidze. During the field research, it was registered only at one site along the route - between points RT13 and RT14 (between Golubica and Diviche). (C)

Fauna – signifficant species

From the insects, from the group of locusts, the presence of carnivore kind Saga natoliae is particularly significant. Ten species of butterflies from the total number of recorded species are with special, i.e. higher, protection status. These are the same species as those recorded in the biomes of the ponto-caspian steppes, except the species Hipparchia senthes and Lycaena dispar. Almost all species of herpetofauna that could be found in this area are with some kind of protection status. 85

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Table - Valorization of herpetofauna in the mediterranean semi-deserts biome Habitats Species IUCN Bern Directive Lacerta trilineata - big green lizard IV E II Testudo hermani – ordinary turtle II/ IV V II Coluber caspius – large whipsnake IV Lr III Coluber najadum – whip snake IV II Теlescopus falax – cat snake IV II

CITES

CORINE

II (1C) -

C -

30 species from the fauna of birds in this biome are of particular importance. Table - Valorization of bird fauna in the mediterranean semi-deserts biome Species SPEC ETS WBD Bern 2 R I II Accipiter brevipes 3 V II Anthus campestris 3 R I II Aquila chrysaetos 3 V I II Calandrela cynerea 4 S II carduleis cannabina* 4 S II Certhya brachidactilla 2 D I II Coracias garrulus 3 V II/2 Coturnix coturnix 4 S I II Dendorcopos medius 4 (S) I II Dendrocopos syriacus 3 (D) I II Emberiza calandra* 4 (S) II Emberiza cirlus 2 (V) I II Emberiza hortulana* 2 (V) II Emberiza melanocephala 4 S II Erithacus rubecula 3 D II Falco tinnunculus 3 D I II Lanius collurio 2 V II Lanius senator 4 S) II Luscinia merarhynchos* 3 D II Merops apiaster* 2 (Е) I II Muscicapa semitorquata 3 Е I II Neophron percnopterus 2 (D) II Otus scops 4 S II Parus coeruleus* 4 S II Parus lugubris 3 V II/1; III/1 III Perdix perdix* 2 D II Picus viridis 3w V II/1; III/2 III Scolopax rusticola* 4 S II Sylvia communis* 4 S II/2 III Turdus merula* * Registered species during field inventory

Bonn II II II II II II II II II II II II

CORINE C C C C C C C C C C C C -

From the mammals in this biome, the same types of bats can be found as those registered in the biomes of the ponto-caspian steppes. Additionally, the following types are also present: (i) Rhynolophus ferrum-equinum, (ii) Rhynolophus hypposideros and (iii) Rhynolophus euryale. The following table shows the valorization analysis of terrestrial mammals that can be found in the concerned area, and which possess a certain valorization value.

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Table - Valorization of terrestrial mammals in the mediterranean semi-deserts biome Species CD Bern IUCN Vormela peregusna - marbled polecat III V Canis lupus - wolf II,IV II V Martes foina - marten III Meles meles -badger III Felis silvestris – wild cat IV II V Lepus capensis - rabbit III -

CORINE C C C -

3.8.3.3 Biome of Submediteranean – Balcans Forests (SBF) (A)

Plant communities and habitats

The biome of the submediteranean-balkan forest in the concerned area is mainly represented by quite degraded oak forests, present in certain parts along the route of the transmission line. Their composition is mostly of Quercus pubescens, rarely Quercus cerris, as well as ligneous and shrubby representatives, specific for thermophile forest vegetation, that develop in the lowest parts of the territory of Republic of Macedonia, like the following species: Acer monspessulanus, Fraxinus ornus, Ulmus minor subsp . tortuosa, Crataegus monogyna, Colutea arborescens, Coronilla emerus subsp. emeroides, Cornus sanguinea, Lonicera etrusca, Prunus spinosa, Cotinus coggygria, Rhus coriaria, Rubus canescens, Osyris alba, and others. Somewhat more preserved habitats are present in the area between RT9 and RT10 (Shipo-Kampur), and between RP10 and RP11 (Kampur-Pezovski Lozja). Degraded habitats of oak forests with Quercus pubescens are present between RP8 and RP9 (Cuculica-Shipo), and between RP12 and RP13 (Kosmatashki Rid-Golubica). (B)

Flora – signifficant species

Most important species found in this biome, is the local endemic species Verbascum lesnovoensis Micev. It is described in the previous chapters. (C)

Fauna – signifficant species

From the butterflies, one species has a specific meaning - Thymelicus sylvestris. This type is associated with near woodland ecosystems. From the group of amphibians and reptiles, most of the species from this biome are with certain European importance. Fortunately, most of them are still widespread and, widely represented throughout the whole territory of Macedonia. Table - Valorization of herpetofauna in the biome of submediteranean-balkan forests Species Habitats IUCN Bern CITES Directive Bufo viridis – green toad frog Lacerta taurica –bull lizard Lacerta viridis – green lizard Lacerta trilineata – big green lizard Ablepharus kitaibeli – snake eyed skink Testudo hermani –ordinary turtle Тestudo graeca – mediteranean turtle Coluber caspius – large whipsnake Coluber najadum – whip snake Telescopus falax – cat snake Natrix tesselatta- water snake Elaphe longissima - Aesculapian Snake

IV IV IV IV II/ IV II/ IV IV IV IV IV IV IV

87

V E V E NE V LR DD V

II II II II II II III II II

II (1C) II (1C) -

CORINE C C C C C C C

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Natrix natrix – grass snake Elaphe situla – leopard snake Eryx jaculus – sand boa Elaphe quatorlineata – four-lined snake

IV IV IV

LR V

III II

-

C C C

From the analysis of the entire bird fauna found throughout this biome along the route, of particular importance are the types shown in the following table. Table - Valorization of fauna of birds in the biome of submediteranean-balkan forests Species SPEC ETS WBD Bern Bonn 4 S II II Sylvia communis* 2 (V) I III Emberiza melanocephalа * 3w V I /1; III/2 III II Scolopax rusticola 3 D I II Lanius collurio* 4 S II Parus coeruleus* 4 S II Parus lugubris 4 S II/2 III II Turdus merula* 3 D II II Merops apiaster* 2 (V) I III Emberiza hortulana* 4 (S) III Emberiza calandra* 3 V II Anthus campestris 4 (S) II II Luscinia megarhynchos* 2 D II Picus viridis* 4 (S) II Emberiza cirlus* 3 V II /2 III II Coturnix coturnix 3 D II II Falco tinmunculus 3 Е I II II Neophorn percnopterus 3 V I II Calandrela cynerea 2 V II Lanius senator 3 V II /1; III /1 III Perdix perdix* 4 S II II Erithacus rubecula 4 S II Carduelis cannabina* 4 S II Certhya brachidactilla 2 D I II II Coracias garrulus 2 D) II Otus scops 4 S I II Dendrocopos medius * Registered species during field inventory

CORINE C C C C C C C C

In this biome, the same types of bats can be found as those recorded in the biome of mediterranean semi-deserts. Additionally, the following types are present: (i) Nyctalus leisleri and (ii) Barbastella barbastellus. Terrestrial mammals that can be found in this biome, and which have significant protection value, are given in the following table. Table - Valorization of terrestrial mammals in the biome of submediteranean-balkan forests Species CD Bern IUCN CORINE Dryomis nitedula –forest dormouse IV III Glis glis – fat dormouse III Erinaceus concolor - hedgehog III Meles meles - badger III Martes foina – stone marten III Canis lupus - wolf II,IV II V C Vormela peregusna – marbeled polecat III V C Felis sylvestris – wild cat IV II V C

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3.9

Population, Settlements, Economic and Social Parameters

The route of the transmission line extends along the corridor of five municipalities, including: Stip, Karbinci, Sveti Nikole, Kumanovo and Staro Nagorichane. The overview of the route in the context of administrative units alongside, and the settlements that gravitate toward the route is shown in the next picture. Picture - Route of 400 kV inter-connective transmission line and overview of settlements

Route of 400 kV OHL Stip – MacSer border

Municipality St. Nagoricane - settlements Mlado Nagoricane Nikuljane Celopek Municipality Kumanovo - settlements Kokoshinje Kshanje Pezovo Kutlibeg Kosmatec Novoselane Zubovce Shupli Kamen Municipality Sv. Nikole - settlements Mustafino Stanulovci Burilovci Arbasanci Meckuevci Rancinci Nemanjica Orel Dolno Gjugjance Gorno Gjugjance

Municipality Stip - settlements Cardaklija Sarcievo Vrsakovo Sudic

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Municipality Karbinci - settlements Dolni Balavan

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

An overview of the number of population in the above settlements in relation to the overall population in concerned municipalities is given in the following table Municipality Stip - settlements Cardaklija Sarcievo Vrsakovo Sudic Sub-total Municipality Karbinci - settlements -

Population of the concerned settlements 730 11 14 8 763 Population

Dolni Balavan

275 275

Sub-total Municipality Sv. Nikole - settlements Mustafino Stanulovci Burilovci Arbasanci Meckuevci Rancinci Nemanjica Orel Dolno Gjugjance Gorno Gjugjance Sub-total Municipality Kumanovo - settlements -

Population 517 2 14 1 15 38 201 45 174 3 1,010 Population

Kokoshinje Kshanje Pezovo Kutlibeg Kosmatec Novoselane Zubovce Shupli Kamen

41 43 51 13 3 4 1 81 237

Sub-total Municipality St. Nagoricane - settlements Mlado Nagoricane Nikuljane Celopek Algunja

Population

Sub-total

1292 210 283 237 2,022

Grand-total

4,307

Population of municipality of Stip 47,796 47,796 Population of municipality of Karbinci 4,012 4,012 Population of municipality of Sv.Nikole

18,497

18,497 Population of municipality of Kumanovo

105,484

105,484 Population of municipality of St.Nagoricane

% of the total municipal population 1.53 0.02 0.03 0.02 1.60

6.85 6.85

2.80 0.01 0.08 0.01 0.08 0.21 1.09 0.24 0.94 0.02 5.46

0.04 0.04 0.05 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.08 0.22

4,840

26.69 4.34 5.85 4.90 41.78

180,629

2.38

4,840

Source: Source: Census of population, households and dwellings in Macedonia, 2002

It can be concluded that the whole area along the 70 km long corridor of the planned 400 kV transmission line is low populated, with total population of 4,307 inhabitatnts or less than 2.5 % of total population in the concerned municipalities. 90

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Population and economic-social parameters of municipalities which are part of the transmission line route Table - Population and households in the municipalities Municipality Population Population Number of density settlements [pe/km2] Stip Karbinci Sveti Nikole Kumanovo Staro Nagoricane Total:

47.796 4.012 18.497 105.484 4.840 180.629

86,9 15,5 38,5 344,0 11,8 /

Households

44 29 34 30 32 169

15.065 1.212 5.698 27.984 1.697 51.656

Average number of household members 3,17 3,31 3,25 3,76 2,85 3,50

Source: Census of population, households and dwellings in Macedonia, 2002

Table – Economic – social parameters Municipality Employment rate (age 15 – 64 years) Stip Karbinci Sveti Nikole Kumanovo Staro Nagoricane

Level of activity of the popoulation

40,2 % 28,8 % 36,6 % 30,1 % 35,9 %

58,4 % 54,1 % 61,4 % 55,6 % 55,4 %

Level of unemployment (total workcapable population) 31,9 % 47,0 % 40,6 % 46,2 % 35,5 %

GDI per capita (level of statistical region) [us$]

Source: Census of population, households and dwellings in Macedonia, 2002

Table – Public services Municipality

Stip Karbinci Sveti Nikole Kumanovo Staro Nagoricane

Percentage of settlements which are conected to the public water supply system 98,2 % 82,1 % 88,4 % 84,9 % 19,8 %

Percentage of dwellings that are connected to the drainage system for waste water 90,2 % 3,5 % 69,2 % 67,9 % 0,2 %

Percentage of settlements connected to the central heating system 5,5 % 0,7 % 3,1 % 4,8 % 0,4 %

Source: Census of population, households and dwellings in Macedonia, 2002

Table – Health services Municipality Stip Karbinci Sveti Nikole Kumanovo Staro Nagoricane

Number of primary health care institutions 19 6 20 41 4

Public expendeture on healt per capita 9.784 MKD / 4.184 MKD 5.275 MKD /

Source: Census of population, households and dwellings in Macedonia, 2002

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5.104 5.104 5.104 3.541 3.541

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3.10

Use and Categorization of Land around the Route of the Transmission Line

The route of the transmission line passes through an area that has different purpose and land use. All settlements in the immediate area along the corridor of the transmission line are typically agricultural villages. There are no significant industrial facilities that may have interactive impact on the planned transmission line. Annex 5 shows a cartographical overview and description of the categorization of land along the route of the transmission line.

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3.11

Existing and Planned Infrastructure on the Route of the Transmission Line

The route of the transmission line passes through a terrain that has diverse infrastructure. At the request of MEPSO, during the initial planning of the project for the inter-connective 400 kV transmission line, and according Macedonian legislation in the field of spatial and urban planning, the Agency for Spatial Planning (ASP) determined the conditions for spatial planning for the project in question. These conditions are included in the document "Conditions for spatial planning for preparation of urban design for the construction of 400 kV interconnective transmission line SS Stip - Macedonian-Serbian border" [Ref.24], issued in December 2008. The conclusions included in this document, in the context of existing and planned infrastructure along the corridor of the inter-connecting transmission line, and the general likely spatial conflicts, are given in continuation. Water Economy infrastructure •

Currently, the hydro system-HS Zletovica is in construction phase, and this system will enable (i) water supply to more than 100,000 inhabitants in the municipalities of Stip, Sveti Nikole, Karbinci, Probistip, Kratovo and Lozovo, (ii) irrigation of 3,100 hectares of agricultural area and (iii) production of electricity from 56.80x106 KWh. HS Zletovica will provide the water from the reservoir Knezevo. The route of the 400 kV inter-connective transmission line passes through the planned route of the pipeline that would distribute water to Sveti Nikole and Lozovo.

•

There are plans for construction of the reservoir Pcinja, which would help improve the hydrological characteristics, and fully use the potential of the river Pcinja. The corridor of the route of transmission line passes through the wider area of the future reservoir. Energy infrastructure

The route of 400 kV inter-connective transmission line to Serbia is intersected with the 110 kV transmission line Kumanovo – Probistip, the main gas pipeline to Bulgaria and with the planned route of the future oil-pipeline AMBO. Trafic and communications The route of 400 kV inter-connective transmission line is intersected with: •

Regional roads: o

road 209 (Sekulovci-Tatomir-Pavleshenci), and

o

road 210 (Sv.Nikole-Nemanjica-Mechkuevci-Puzderci).

•

Railway Kumanovo – Beljakovce, and

•

Optic telephone cables.

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Map - Overview of existing and planned water economy and energy infrastructure in the area of the corridor on the route of the transmission line

Source: Conditions for spatial planning for preparation of urban design for the construction of 400 kV interconnective transmission line SS Stip - Macedonian-Serbian border, ASP, December 2008

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Map - Overview of traffic infrastructure in the area of the corridor on the route of the transmission line

Source: Conditions for spatial planning for preparation of urban design for the construction of 400 kV interconnective transmission line SS Stip - Macedonian-Serbian border, ASP, December 2008

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3.12

Natural Heritage

Along the corridor of the transmission line, there are two protected areas (PA). These are: •

The site "Mlado Nagorichane” (Category: Proposed Monument of Nature - MN)

The site is a proposed botanical-geological monument of nature. It is located in the area of section RP13 - RP 14. The site is located approximately 10 km north-east of Kumanovo, near the main road to Kriva Palanka, or the border crossing with Bulgaria, on an area of 175 hectares. The phenomenon is a characteristic line of 8 panels of massive basalt with layers of spongy lava, which previously represented only a basalt panel, and through geological history was divided by tectonic-erosive destructive processes. The presence of the relict plant Celtis tournefortii is very significant. The location of this plant is at a significant distance from the route of the transmission line. The basalt panels are a rare and very attractive phenomenon in the world, which makes them very important for the scientific research activity, education, and a first class landscape composition. •

The site "Nemanjici” (Category: Proposed Monument of Nature - MN)

The site is proposed as geo-morphological monument of nature. It is located in the area around RP8. The site is located near the v. Nemanjinci, on an area of 2 hectares, where the geological profile in the paleogene flysch series was detected, and the horizon of sandstone is rich with fossil flora and fauna. The fauna is marine, typical for upper eocene, while the flora suggests the existence of tropical climate conditions. The site has important scientific and educational importance, especially because it is comparative to other sites in Central Europe and Dinarides. Picture - Natural Heritage (projection to 2020) Траса на 400 kV далекувод

Source: Spatial Plan of Republic of Macedonia 2002 - 2020 (adopted in 2004)

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3.13

Cultural Heritiage

In the wider area of the corridor on the route of the inter-connecting 400 kV transmission line, there are records of cultural goods (Spatial Plan of Republic of Macedonia from 2002 to 2020, Expert study of cultural heritage): •

Archaeological site "Kostoperska Karpa / Zhegligovski Kamen, Maldo Nagorichane, eneolith to late middle century

•

Church Sv.Gjorgji Pobedonosec, Maldo Nagorichane, 1406, and

•

Church of St. Petka, Mlado Nagorichane, XVII century.

The archaeological map of Republic of Macedonia, which studies the prehistoric and historic layers of human existence, from the earliest times to the late Middle Ages, has recorded number of sites in the wider area. Their detailed examination is given in terms of spatial planning, defined by the Agency for Spatial Planning [Ref.24]. Picture - Cultural Heritage in Macedonia (projection to 2020) Transmission Line

Source: Spatial Plan of Republic of Macedonia 2002 - 2020 (adopted in 2004)

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4

Environmental Impacts from Project Implementation

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4.1

Safety Aspects

The principle safety aspects, and potential impacts on human safety and security of the infrastructure of the transmission line, refer to: •

Safety from electrical hazard

•

Electric and magnetic fields (EMF)

•

Risk of fire

•

Vibrations of the transmission line

•

Geological hazard

4.1.1

Safety from Electrical Hazards

The dangers of using electricity are well known and, therefore, this issue will be one of the key aspects of the design of the transmission line. Compliance with the requirements embedded in the legal and technical regulations relating to safety from electrical hazard, including the establishment of sanitary security zones, safe distances to transmission line elements and limitations in terms of land use in these areas, will prevent the creation of conflicting situations in terms of people and property. According to the requirements incorporated in the Rulebook for the technical norms for construction of overhead power lines, with nominal power from 1 kV to 400 kV, each tower will have warning signs, warning of hazard from electric current. 4.1.2

Electric and Magnetic Fields

In the last sixty years, apart from the existing natural electric and magnetic fields, people are exposed to numerous low-frequency (50 to 60 Hz) electro-magnetic fields (EMF). These fields are result of the generation, transmission, distribution and use of electricity. EMF are present in the surroundings of the operating electrical equipment. The intensity of the electric field is measured in "volt per meter" (V / m), and varies in function of the difference of potentials between the conductors, land and nearby objects. The magnetic fields are described with the concept of density flux (magnetic induction). These fields are measured in unit "Tesla" (T). In the last period of about 25 years, intensive research has been carried out to determine the impact and the harmfulness of these fields in terms of human health. However, no direct adverse health effects have been proven so far. The intensity of the EMF from the transmission line installations depends on the voltage level of the line, and progressively decreases with the increase of the distance from the conductor. Standards for limits values for exposure In 1998, based on available information, the International Commission for non-ionizing radiation protection (ICNIRP) issued recommendations relating to the limitation of exposure to low frequent fields, published in “Guidelines for limiting the exposure to electric, magnetic and electromagnetic fields with varying duration (up to 300 GHz)" 4) (Ref.6). ICNIRP recommendations refer also to the long-term exposure of the population and the short-term exposure in industrial locations. The limits for exposure, established by the recommendations are widely accepted worldwide. They are adopted in: 4

The document is available on www.icnirp.org. 99

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• The recommendations of the EU Council 1999/519/EU of July 12, 1999 which restrict the exposure of population to electro-magnetic fields (0 Hz do 300 GHz), and • Directive 2004/40/EU of the European Parliament and EU Council of April 29, 2004 for minimum criteria for health and safety regarding exposure of workers to risks arising from physical agents (electromagnetic fields). Table - Limit values for exposure to EMF (ICNPR / EU) Exposure of public Industrial exposure Electric field Magnetic field Electric field 5 kV/m 100 µT 10 kV/m

Magnetic field 500 µT

Taking into account the rising concern of the public on issues related to health implications that would have been the result of exposure to electromagnetic fields, many countries in the world began the process of drafting national legislation for establishing the permissible limit values for EMF.However, this type of regulation refers to EMF from high frequency and radio frequency sources. Most EU countries have simply adopted the recommendations for low frequency EMF given by ICNIRP, and follow the directions of the above recommendations of the European Council. In Macedonia, there is no national regulation for EMF from low-frequency sources. Intensity of EMF near 400 kV transmissio line Previous measurements of values of EMF by various institutions, for relatively low security height of phase conductor from 10 meters above the ground, determined an electric field of 6.7 kV / m, and magnetic induction of 42.9 μT. Taking into account the above-defined limits of exposure to EMF, it can be concluded that for this and higher altitudes of the phase conductor, the temporary presence of people near 400 kV transmission line, is not likely to have harmful effect on their health. The electric field progressively decreases with the increase of the distance from the transmission line, and that of 3 kV / m at 15 meters distance from the edge of transmission line field, i.e., 1 kV / m at a distance of 25 meters. Thus, the intensity of the field outside the corridor of the 400 kV transmission line is significantly lower in relation to the criteria from ICNPR / EU. Compared to the magnetic induction under 400 kV transmission line, the criterion for limit value for exposure (100 μT) is satisfied, even in cases of permanent residence or nearby residence. Research on EMF from transmission lines in Republic of Macedonia In Macedonia, in 1999 the Faculty of Electrical Engineering in Skopje conducted tests for human exposure to electric and magnetic fields near a 400 kV transmission line. Research results can be summarized as follows: •

The model for calculating the EMF near high-voltage transmission line is based on standardized procedures, specified in the document "Electric and magnetic fields produced by transmission systems. The description of the phenomenon - Practical guide for calculating ", issued by the Conference Internationale des Grands Reseaux 100

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Electriques (CIGRE) in 1980 in Paris. The results of the measurements were validated by comparison with recognized published reference results. •

The results of the calculation of the electric field with intensity of 5 kV / m and more (which is the proposed limit value for exposure - ICNIRP) is limited in an area of about 9.5 m below the conductor lines, and about 7 meters left and right of the external conductors of the transmission line.

•

The results of the calculation of the magnetic field show that, under symmetric regime, magnetic fields with an unacceptable intensity of 100 μT or more (which is the proposed limit value for exposure - ICNIRP) are limited in an area of about 4 m below the conductor line, and about 2 meters left and right of each conductor of the transmission line.

According to the above mentioned, and taking into account the fact that the route of the 400 kV inter-connective transmission line does not pass near residential areas, towns and settlements, its activity does not have a significant potential to cause adverse effects on human health of local populations. Also, bearing in mind that the presence of maintenance personnel will be in the form of short periodic intervals, negative effects are not expected. Based on this, it can be concluded that the probability of EMF impact on human health is not a major issue for the project. 4.1.3

Risk of Fire

Issues related to risk from fires may include: •

Potential of construction activities to cause a fire. To reduce the dangers of fire of this kind, certain measures will be undertaken during the construction phase.

•

Potential of operational facilities to cause a fire. The potential risk of fires associated with electrical defects during the operational phase of the project, will be managed by security measures and monitoring requirements incorporated in the regulations regarding fire protection.

•

Influences on the transmission line from a possible fire, caused on the route itself or in the wider area. The risk of damage to the transmission line from fire is low when there is no forest cover, or high vegetation in the surrounding area. The route of the transmission line is in an area with rare forest vegetation, and for those reasons, it will not be exposed to significant risk of damage from fire.

4.1.4

Vibrations of the Transmission Line

The appearance of mechanical oscillations - vibrations of cables (phase conductors and protective ropes) of the transmission lines is caused by laminar circulation of air masses. This phenomenon is most intense when the direction of the air power is generally vertical on the transmission line. Depending on the intensity of air current, amplitude and frequency, generally the vibrations can be: •

"Eol” vibrations - frequency: 5-10 Hz; amplitude 1-40 mm; wind speed: 0,5-5,5 m/sec.

•

“Galloping" oscillations - frequency 0,2-1 Hz, amplitude 1-10 mm; wind speed 5-15 m/sec.

Despite the wind and freezing, the topography of the terrain and vegetation, construction of cables and equipment for connection, the selected maximum allowable working tensions, temperature, etc. have influence on the occurrence of mechanical vibrations.

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In the case of mechanical oscillations, the damage on the transmission lines can be divided into: •

Damage to the wires (the wire break, etc.).

•

Damage to the equipment for connection

•

Damage to the tower structure (unscrewing of screws, even bending of the construction during "galloping" oscillations).

The Macedonian network has no registered data on the occurrence of progressive "galloping" oscillations, because of the well-chosen basic concept of electrical transmission lines. Regarding the “eol" vibrations, according to research by MEPSO (and in the previous period, research by ESM), as well as past experience with existing transmission lines, there is no need for certain additional safeguard measures for the inter-connective 400 kV transmission line in question. 4.1.5

Safety Aspects from Geological Hazards

Along the corridor of the route of the transmission line, number of engineering-geological appearances and processes of dredging and excavating have been registered: •

Fossil excavation at about 200 meters south of RP8.

•

Intensive dredging and fossil excavating under RP9.

•

Increased dredging of the western slope of the "Crvena Suma" between RP 9 and RP10.

•

Excavation at about 300 meters southeast of the reference point RP12 or about 170180 meters perpendicular to the span of the route.

These appearances represent a geological hazard, and probably have the potential to cause adverse effects on the safety of the structures of the transmission line. Therefore, to eliminate risk, it is necessary to provide appropriate measures in the phase of detailed design of the route of the transmission line, especially in determining the individual locations of towers in areas of the above mention localities. The proposed measures for elimination of the probability of occurrence of these hazards are given in chapter 5.3 of this study for environmental impact assessment.

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4.2

Impacts on Biological Diversity

Construction phase In this project phase of the transmission line, activities that would likely have a negative effect on vegetation, the autochthonous flora and plant communities and natural habitats are: •

Removal of vegetation for construction activities (extension of the wires, assembly and installation of the towers) and safe operation of the transmission line. Planned corridor of the 400 kV transmission line is routed mostly in an agricultural area. Due to the intensification of commercial activity, the main type of vegetation and forests are preserved as small islands between agrophytocenoses and settlements, which is also typical for the whole plain part of Ovce Pole and Kumanovo valley. Scattered woodland areas exist in the most northern section of the corridor toward border with Serbia. Thematic maps on land use in the Annex 5.1 show a cartographical overview and description of the land use along the route of the transmission line. Bearing in mind these conditions, the removal of vegetation and trees is expected to be minimal and limited, primarily towards meeting the requirements for safety distances and creation of the protection zone, required in the legislation for transmission power lines, i.e the Regulation on technical principles for construction of overhead power lines with nominal voltage of 1 kV to 400 kV. Prescribed safety distance in this regulation from the outermost conductors of the 400 kV transmission line to surrounding trees is 5 metres. Beyond this distance it is not required to cut down the trees. The process of further project planning and the detail design will include detailed description of areas where a need to prune vegetation will occur during the construction of transmission line for creation of the protection zone.

•

Improvement of existing access roads, and (possibly) construction of new access roads to certain sites where the towers will be placed.

•

The area where construction materials will be stored.

•

Increased frequency of transport and construction machinery.

•

Increased frequency of people and construction workers, particularly in the context of the possibility for collecting medicinal plants.

•

Potential fires in the area of construction work, which could have irreversible consequences in terms of vegetation and biodiversity of flora.

•

Special potential negative effect could be expected if the access roads to the towers pass through populations of significant habitat types from the Habitat Directive (recorded in chapter 3 of this study) and endemic species, where fragmentation or complete degradation of their habitat could occur.

In the construction phase, activities that would have a potential negative effect of the autochthonous fauna are: •

Improvement of existing access roads, and (possibly) construction of new access roads to individual sites where the towers will be placed.

•

Increased traffic frequency and vehicle movement will result in increased levels of noise, which can cause disturbance, especially of birds and mammals in their usual activities for nourishment and rest. An additional effect would be obstruction of bird nesting and some mammals (foxes).

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•

Increased frequency of people and construction workers, particularly in the context of potential risk of disturbance to birds and other vertebrates, which prevents nesting and usual nourishment and rest of the autochthonous fauna, especially birds and mammals.

•

Potential fires in the construction work area, which could have irreversible consequences on the biodiversity of fauna.

All the previously mentioned activities potentially influence, mainly less, on the loss of hunting grounds (among all animal groups), loss of summerresting areas, or have an impact during the migration through the loss of places for nourishment and mating. However, it should be emphasized that the impacts on biodiversity in the construction phase are of short-term nature, and that with the implementation of appropriate preventive measures and procedures, they can be reduced to insignificant levels.

Operational phase In the operational phase, with the start of the operation of the transmission line, no significant adverse impacts on plant species, plant communities and habitats are expected. There are no plans to conduct interim control of the transmission line with helicopters and, therefore, creation of disturbing noise in terms of the sensitive species of fauna is not expected. The possible impacts on land animals (amphibians and reptiles) and the majority of insects, which generally do not gravitate to the height of the transmission line infrastructure, are insignificant. In this design phase, the likely impacts on birds would be: 1)

Collision with transmission line cables, especially the larger species of birds (geese, ducks, swans, and birds of prey), in terms of: -

Spring or autumn migration of waterfowl at the intersection of the transmission line with r.Pchinja (between village Zubovce and RP 13)

-

Spring and autumn migration of larger species of birds of prey alongside the whole transmission line.

-

In conditions of rainy weather and fog.

2)

Collision of smaller birds with transmission line cables during wanderings in larger clusters and migration. This especially applies to starlings and great larks, and most species of buntings who have a habit of moving into larger clusters.

3)

The possibility of electrocuting birds is the biggest threat to birds from transmission line installations. This usually happens to the larger bird species, but may occur to some small species (the size of sparrows and starlings).

There are several reasons for electrocution, including: -

Inappropriate locations of the transmission line conductors and isolators. It is strictly necessary to comply with: i. Recommendation of the Bern Convention no.110/2004) - [Ref.1] ii. Resolution 7.4 of the Convention for the protection of migratory species [Ref.2] 104

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iii. Recommendations of the working group Birdlife International for birds and transmission lines (2007). -

Contact of the bird faeces in semi solid state with the phase conductor, which is the cause for electrocution and death of birds. These cases are typical for rainy days.

-

Contact of two phases or two conductors with different voltage, with larger birds.

Beside the above mentioned accidents, there are series of cases when a transmission line is out of order because of: -

short circuit caused by falling branches from the nest material, especially during wet weather conditions, and

-

short circuit caused by contact of two conductors with larger raptors or waterfowl.

Hence, most of the mentioned reasons that may lead to electrocution are low probable and do not pose significant threat to the bird fauna. Having in mind that the horizontal distance of the phase condustors of the planned 400 kV transmission line is minimum 7.5 m it can be concluded that the risk of electrocution is insignificant, even for the biggest known birds of prey in Macedonia. Potential danger in terms of bats is their clash with a transmission line conductor, usually during hunting prey. This effect is probably where the transmission route passes close to the typical habitats of bats, such as woodland or caves. This is not the case with the 400 kV interconnective transmission line Stip - Macedonian-Serbian border. For this reason, the transmission line has no potential direct impact on bats.

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4.3

Impacts on Geology and Soils

Construction phase The expected impacts of the transmission line on the geological structures and soil in the design phase, would be in the form of soil degradation and erosion, and violation of certain geological formations because: •

Construction of access roads and work plateaus to projected locations, for performing investigative field work, construction and installation of towers

•

Excavation of foundations for towers

•

Eventual fuel leak and lubricants from construction machinery and vehicles for transport of construction materials and equipment, and

•

Handling and manipulation of chemicals and oils for the transmission line equipment.

Considering that most of the route of the transmission line reaches across the land where agricultural activities using heavy agricultural machinery take place, the risk of soil compacting from construction work for the transmission line, is considered insignificant, because the construction vehicles and machinery will have a similar magnitude of impact as the agriculture machinery. The risk of soil erosion is limited, mainly to localities where the preparation, assembly and installation of the towers will be done. It is necessary to eliminate or reduce to a minimum, the possible influences of several micro locations near the village Nemanjica, where within Eocene tile formations, there are relics of ancient flora and fauna. This is especially important because they are proposed for protected area - a monument of nature. There are no plans to open new installations for exploitation of mineral-geological materials in the area of the corridor on the route of the transmission line. Therefore, no negative impact on mineral resources in the concerned area is expected. In terms of hydrogeological occurrences and objects, the expected impacts that need attention are: •

Potential degradation and destruction of existing underground line facilities (pipelines and channels), on locations determined for towers, as well as the construction of access roads and

•

Potential direct and indirect pollution (through water and objects) of aquifer rock masses (hydrogeological collectors), through vertical infiltration (leakage) of fuel, oil, or cement solution from vehicles and construction machinery.

In terms of engineering-geological occurrences and processes, the potential impacts that need attention are: •

Activation of existing and new excavations, during the construction of access roads and

•

Erosion of excavated material, particularly during the construction of notches at the access roads.

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Operational phase Regarding the operational phase, impacts on the transmission line on the geological structures and soil, hydrogeological and engineering appearances and geological phenomena, and processes are not expected, except in periods of maintenance and servicing of the transmission line, when the risks of disruption and erosion, as well as indirect and direct contamination of soils and rock masses, through vertical infiltration of fuel, oil or chemicals, again become current.

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4.4

Impacts on Air quality and Climate

During its operational phase, the transmission line will not produce emissions of harmful pollutants in the air. The corona effect can result in a negligible production of ozone (O3) around the transmission line conductors. The transmission line has no potential to cause changes in climate parameters in the area of the corridor of the route. The impact on air quality will be during the construction phase of the transmission line. Construction phase The construction work on each of the locations of towers typically includes performance of earth and concrete works for construction of concrete foundations, and installation of tower structures. There will be movement of different type of vehicles, construction machinery, and labor force across the access roads within the established construction zones. During the construction phase, the main sources of air-pollutants are the exhaust systems of the construction machinery and vehicles for transporting segments of tpwers, work force, and materials. The group pollutants of this type include NOx, SO2, CO, etc. The intensity of these impactsa is short term and limited to completion of the construction works, and is in relation to the level of standards for fuels that are used in Macedonia, i.e. limit value for the content of sulfur, lead, benzene, etc. The level of emission depends also on the manner of maintenance of the vehicles. Fugitive dust emissions can be expected because of the establishment of a construction site(s), expanding the existing and building new access roads, transport, and handling of construction materials, earth works, construction of the concrete foundations for the tower construction and others. During the construction phase, there will be no odour emissions. The emissions of pollutants and dust in the air can affect the local population, depending on the direction and speed of wind. It is expected that this impact is insignificant because of: • the fact that most of the micro locations of the towers will be of considerable distance from settlements • the existing vegetation along the route of the transmission line is kind of a barrier for the dispersion of emissions, and • environmental management and mitigation measures will be taken.

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4.5

Impact on Quality of Surface Waters

Construction phase The establishment of construction sites and the construction of the transmission line and access roads to individual locations of the towers, can affect the quality of surface water as follows: •

The disruption of the land surface and the removal of soil cover can cause erosion of the sediments, and potential contamination of the surrounding surface waters, by increasing the level of solid particles suspended in them.

•

Leakage of polluted water from construction sites.

•

Fuel or oil leakage from vehicles.

•

Removal / disposal of waste into surface waters.

•

Heavy metals present in emissions from vehicles.

Direct irreversible impacts on the regime and the quality of surface water from the implementation of construction works are not expected. Potential risk site that should be taken into consideration is the intersection of the corridor of the route and Pcinja River, south of the reference point RP13. This is especially important because of the fact that in the period of low water level, the locals with tractors use the firm rocky bottom of the river (marble) to pass from one side of river to the other. The construction machinery may use this point during construction, which opens the possibility for significant impact on water quality. For this reason, the crossing of the river in this manner should be prohibited. During the construction of the transmission line, impact on groundwater is not expected, because the construction works will include shallow pits.

Operational phase During its operational phase, the transmission line will not discharge harmful pollutants in the water. The operational transmission line could result in minor potential impacts on the water quality, especially with activities for maintenance and control of the infrastructure and equipment. Potential sources of contamination of water during this phase are: •

Fuel or oil leakage from vehicles used for maintenance of the transmission line.

•

Removal / disposal of waste into surface waters.

•

Heavy metals present in emissions from vehicles.

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4.6

Impacts from Noise

Construction phase Emission of noise in this design phase is imminent. Construction work on each of the locations of the towers will typically include execution of earth and concrete works for construction of concrete foundations, and installation of the tower structures. The construction machinery and work force will move within the established construction zones. Major sources of harmful noise during the construction phase, including transportation and installation oftowers, are the construction machinery and equipment, and procedures of handling construction materials. The highest level of this type of noise is up to 80 to 90 dB (A). Having in mind the distance of most of the individual locations of the towers of the settlements, and the fact that the operation of the above sources is not continuous, the generation of harmful noise will be occasional, and will not cause significant environmental impact and impact on the local population. This influence can be compared with the noise that is generated from agricultural machinery. Taking the appropriate standardized measures and operational activities during the construction works, will allow compliance of noise levels with the emission limit values. The intensification of traffic on the main access roads due to construction activities would cause short-term increase in the level of noise in the settlements. However, because of the short duration of these impacts, the emission limit values are not expected to be exceeded, and no irreversible damage on humans and the environment is expected.

Operational phase During its operational phase, the transmission line will not produce emissions of harmful noise in the immediate surroundings and the environment. There are no plans to implement interim control of the transmission line with helicopters and, therefore, disturbing noise is not expected. Emission of noise is expected only from the maintenance equipment (vehicles, cranes, etc.), during the maintenance of the transmission line. This noise has short-term effect, and no potential to cause adverse impact on humans and the environment. Corona effect In this phase, there is possible occurrence of disturbing noise due to corona effect, i.e. electrical discharges around the conductor wires. Corona effect is a normal phenomenon associated with all energy transmission lines. Under certain conditions, a localized electric field near the conductor of energy can be concentrated enough to create electrical discharge, which ionizes the surrounding air. The partial discharge of electricity is known as corona discharge or corona effect. Several factors, including voltage, shape and diameter, and surface irregularities of the conductor (scratches, dust or water droplets) can affect the surface gradient of the conductor and its corona behavior. The corona is actually a physical manifestation of energy loss in the form of very small amounts of sound, radio noise, heat and chemical reaction with components of the surrounding air.

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The noise from the corona effect is directly dependant on certain physical parameters of the environment, particularly the presence of forest belts, morphology of the terrain, etc. Because the energy losses are non-economic, and the noise is undesirable, the corona effect in the transmissions lines has been explored in detail in the recent decades. Consequently, the corona effect is entirely known, and when designing the transmission lines, measures for its minimization are implemented, particularly for high-voltage transmission lines with voltage levels above 300 kV. The proper choice of conductor sizes for the transmission line will reduce the localized electric blast on the air on the surface of the conductor, and will further reduce the surface gradient on the same level that would cause very small and negligible corona activity.

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4.7

Solid Waste Management

During its life cycle, the transmission line will create different types and fractions of waste, including municipal waste, packaging waste and waste from construction activities. Additionally, creation of minor quantities of certain fractions of hazardous waste (paints, varnishes, adhesives, anti-corrosive substances, etc.) is expected, as in the phase of construction, and in the operational phase.

Construction phase At this stage, the main source of waste will be the construction activities themselves, and waste generated by the workforce. Taking into consideration the fact that most of the total volume of construction activities will be of a prefabricated type, the amount of construction waste will be insignificant. The fractions of waste that will be created as a result of construction activities are in relation to the types of materials and equipment to be used during the performance of the various construction stages (earthen and concrete works, electro-mechanical works, installation works, final work, etc.). Technical maintenance of construction machinery and other vehicles will not be conducted within the location. For these reasons, creation of waste, characteristic for this type of activity (used tires, batteries and oils from vehicles and other) is not expected. Solid waste that will be produced by the workers during their stay at the site and the construction site is municipal waste, and according to its composition is similar to the waste from the households. The tables give an overview of the expected types of waste during the construction phase, systematized according to the classification in the List for types of waste. group 15 – Packaging waste 15 01 Packaging waste, paper and cardboard, plastics, wood, metal, composite packaging, glass, etc. group 17 – Construction and demolition waste 17 03 Waste bituminous mixtures, tar and products from tar *) 17 04 Waste from metals 17 05 04 Waste from land excavation 17 06 04 Isolation materials (that don’t contain asbestos or dangerous substances) 17 09 04 Other construction waste (mixed waste) *) Categorised as hazardous waste group 20 – Municipal waste (+ simmilar waste from the industry), including fractions of selected waste 20 01 Separatly collected fractions (solvents, paint, glues and others*) 20 03 01 Mixed municipal waste 20 03 07 Bulky waste *) Depending on the content, they can be categorized as hazardous waste

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Operational phase During its operation, the transmission line will create waste that will result from the activities of MEPSO regarding the maintenance and control of the installation. Common types of waste that will be created in the operational phase of the project include consumables, spare parts and equipment. The dynamics of the creation of these wastes is in relation to the of maintenance regime and in accordance with the requirements of the manufacturer of the transmission line and accompanying technology. The waste management system shall be established during the operational stage. This system will be in compliance with the legal waste requirements and in line with MEPSO’s internal practices for maintenance of overhead transmission lines.

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4.8

Property Aspects and Impacts on Incomes

Considering: (i) that most of the route of the interconnective 400 kV transmission line passes along the existing boundaries of agricultural units, (ii) that the spans between two adjacent towers are relatively long (about 400 meters) (iii) that the area needed to locate the towers is insignificant compared to the surrounding agricultural areas, and the fact (iv) that the transmission lines are facilities that are fully compatible with all forms of agricultural activity, i.e. that they can continue in their operational phase, it is assumed that, the project would imply negligible impact on the processes of agricultural production and economic revenue from it. Therefore, it will not create a noticeable measurable effect on generating income of affected farmers and agricultural companies. The permanent loss of land, forest and other property, and possible damage during the construction phase, or during maintenance of the transmission line, will be subject to compensation under positive Macedonian regulations. MEPSO will conduct an appropriate process of land acquisition by any natural or legal person owning the land that is necessary for the implementation of the project.

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4.9

Visual Aspects

Construction phase The area within the construction zones, established along the route of the transmission line, will be temporarily changed during the construction phase. The number of construction sites, their size and locations of these will be specified in the technical documentation for construction. These zones, together with the localities where the construction materials and prefabricated segments of the towersw will be stored, will be visually discernible, and will draw changes in the aesthetics of the area. However, these changes will be of short-term nature, with duration equal to the time of construction. Therefore, and due to the fact that most of the route corridor has agricultural activities of different kind and scale, these changes will have minor importance. After the completion of the construction activities, and according to the obligations under Macedonian legislation for construction, the micro – relief and vegetation in these areas will be subject to restoration.

Operational phase At certain sites, the new 400 kV interconnective transmission line will cause limited visual changes to the existing landscape and scenery. Because of (i) the relatively thin design of the towers and (ii) the principle of selection of the route corridor, parallel with already existing structures / transmission line, as well as (iii) significant distances from settlements, the visual effect of transmission line is expected to be low.It is considered that the visual amenity of the study area in general would not deteriorate to a significant degree and the overall impact upon the population of the study area is therefore limited. Visible changes will occur only in places of intersection of the transmission line with roads and places for bridging deep gullies and ravines. In the vicinity of the route, there are no specified regions with significant visual values, tourist and recreational areas, historical and architectural monuments, whose aesthetic values would be in conflict with it. The Spatial Plan of Republic of Macedonia 2002 - 2020 has no record of declared protected areas, or proposed landscape diversity areas in the nearby surrounding of the transmission line. Due to careful planning of the route of the transmission line, the need for clearing vegetation, trees, and forest covers is reduced to a minimum. It contributes to a reduced impact on the visual characteristics of the area along the corridor route. Noticeable visual change will occur only at points of crossing of the transmission line with roads, and places of bridging deep valleys and ravines. Based on the past experience it can be concluded that the visual aspects associated with OHL developments do not represent crucial aspect for their acceptance by the local population and it is likely that the majority of the community will regard the visual impact as being acceptable. Consultation to date with residents in the vicinity of the OHL route has been generally positive.

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4.10

Impacts on Natural Heritage

The planned route of the transmission line does not pass near registered protected natural heritage. During the preparation of plan documentation, and during the detailed design of the transmission line infrastructure, MEPSO will respect the requirements for protection of the registered natural heritage, embedded in the Macedonian legislation and multilateral international agreements in the field of nature conservation. This approach implies the avoidance of any construction activities, penetration / usage of access roads and installation of the towers in areas around the registered protected areas. That would allow the elimination of potential direct impacts on them.

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4.11

Impacts on Cultural Heritage

During the preparation of the planning documentation, and during the detailed design of transmission line infrastructure, MEPSO will respect the requirements for protection of the cultural heritage embedded in the Macedonian legislation and multilateral international agreements in the field of culture. In addition, during the construction works, the work contractor shall be obliged to comply with stipulations of the Law on Protection of Cultural Heritage as described below. Macedonian legal requirements in a case of accidental archeological discovery If an archaeological site or items of archaeological significance are found during execution of construction works, the work contractor / investor is obliged to: (i)

inform immediately the competent public institution for protection of cultural heritage or the Ministry of Internal Affairs about the discovery

(ii) cease the operations and to secure the site against eventual damaging or destroying, as well as against unauthorized access, and (iii) maintain the discovered items in the location and in condition they were found. If archeological items are excavated, i.e. taken out for the purpose of their better protection, the work contractor / investor is obliged: •

To submit the discovered items to the competent authority during the time of providing the above information or to do that during the process of identification of the discoveries by the competent public institution for protection of cultural heritage.

•

To undertake necessary measures to protect the items against damage or sale until their submission to the competent public institution for protection of cultural heritage.

•

To provide all necessary information regarding the location and position of the items in the time of their discovery and regarding the circumstances under which it was carried out.

Depending on the nature and importance of the discovered site and archeological items and upon a decision by the Macedonian national Cultural Heritage Protection Office (CHPO), the construction works may: •

Continue under archaeological supervision by competent public institution for protection of cultural heritage.

•

Be temporary ceased. In such situation, CHPO proposes protective excavations and research, as well as other protective measures. The temporary cessation of works may proceed no longer than 30 days, in which period the CHPO shall enact a decision for temporary protection of the site / archeological items. If such decision is not enacted, after the completion of the protective excavations and researches, the site shall be considered as a free area.

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4.12

Cumulative Impacts

Cumulative impacts are combined impacts of two or more projects that are close to the same location or area, and which types of impacts have similar nature and potential for interaction. Thus, in relation to the planned 400 kV interconnective transmission line, cumulative effects may occur as a result of other existing, or future projects of the same type along its corridor, especially other transmission lines. Taking into account the nature of the likely impacts of the planned transmission line, of some significance in the context of their integration with influences from other transmission lines are influences from EMF. Due to the fact that EMF have mainly localized character, and are actual in the immediate vicinity of the transmission line, the potential for interaction of EMF impacts from various sources is negligible.

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4.13

Matrix of Environmental Impacts

Description of the parameters of the effect according to their (i) scope, (ii) probability of occurrence, (iii) duration and (iv) significance, is given in the following table. Scope

Probability

Duration

Significance

Limited (on location / route of the transmission line) Local Regional Global No probability Low probability Average probability High probability Reliable probability Very short Short Average duration Long Very long А B C D

Area on, and around the construction and operational location (route of 400 kV interconnective transmission line) In the range of municipality / neighboring municipalities R. Macedonia / neighbor countries Continent and wider Should not occur during normal operation and conditions Possible, but unlikely May happen sometimes Likely to occur during the life cycle of the project Will certainly appear Few minutes to few hours Few hours to few weeks Few weeks to few months Few months to few years Decades / centuries Negligible (minor) weak impact without damaging the environment Measurable impact, but with proper planning does not cause damage to the environment Significant impact, but can be controlled by implementing the appropriate measures Influence that would be harmful to the environment

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Table - Matrix of the main environmental impacts from the interconnective 400 kV transmission line / 1 Parameter / indicator of environment Electromagnetic fields contruction operation

Description

Scope

Duration

Probability

Significance

/

/

/

/

creation of EMF

Limited

Long

/ Will certainly appear

A/B

Biological diversity Habitats fragmentation of internationally important habitats, plant communities, flora and fauna contruction

devastation of habitats from fire partial devastation of the habitats through excavation and embankments

operation

Average Long Limited Short

fragmentation of the habitats of wild animals

Long

Will certainly appear Average probability Will certainly appear Will certainly appear

C C B B

Flora construction operation Fauna

construction

fragmentation of habitats of endemic plant species / disturbance of fauna (noise and people), especially of vertebrates (obstruction of breed)

Limited

Average

/

/

Limited

Short

collection of snails and bird eggs operation

collision of birds / bats with the conductors of the transmission line death of birds (electrocution)

Limited

120

Very long

Will certainly appear / Will certainly appear Average probability High probability No probability

B /

B B/C B C

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Table - Matrix of the main environmental impacts from the interconnective transmission line 400 kV / 2 Parameter / indicator of environment Geology and soil construction

Description degradation of soil / rock masses (tower locations and access roads) fuel leaks, oil or concrete solvent leaks from vehicles leak of fuel or oil from vehicles

Scope

Duration

Limited

Long to very long

Local

Very short

Local

Very short

Limited

Very short

/

/

Local

Very short

Local

Long, discontinued

construction machinery / equipment vehicles for transport of materials

Local

Very short

corona effect

Limited

Long, discontinued

construction

different categories of waste

Limited

Average

operation

different categories of waste

Limited

Incidental

construction / access roads / building towers

Limited

Very short

visibility of transmission line infrastructure

Local

Long

operation

Probability

Significance

B Average probability

B/C A/B

Air quality construction operation

emission of dust and emission of exhaust systems of vehicles /

Will certainly appear /

B /

Water quality construction operation

fuel leaks, oil or concrete solvent leaks from vehicles leak of fuel or oil from vehicles

Average probability

B/C

Will certanly happen High probability

А

A/B

Noise construction operation

А

Waste management Will certainly appear Low probability

B B

Visual aspects construction operation

121

Will certainly appear Will certainly appear

А А

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5

Mitigation Measures

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5.1

Mitigation Measures for Electro-magnetic Fields

The likely impacts from electric and magnetic fields from the 400 kV interconnective transmission line will be present during its operational phase. Overall, the risk of harmful effects from electric and magnetic fields on humans can be minimized through appropriate design solutions. The main measure to eliminate the likely impact of EMF is an appropriate choice of the locations of towers / spreading of the route in terms of the settlements. Most of the established route of the 400 kV interconnective transmission line doesn’t pass close to residential areas, towns, and cities. During the process of design of the transmission line infrastructure and equipment, the requirements for minimum heights of the phase wires will be incorporated, allowing fulfillment of the levels of exposure to EMF set by the ICNIRP. In addition, in the operation phase of the transmission line, MEPSO will conduct monitoring and measuring activities for the levels of EMF in certain potentially critical sites, and control the possible exceeding of the limit values of exposure.

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5.2

Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact on the Biodiversity

Design phase and construction phase (A)

General mesures for reducing the impacts

General measures to reduce impacts on plant communities, habitats, flora and fauna in this phase include: •

Use of existing access roads and minimizing the construction of new access roads.

•

Prohibition and prevention of any actions that impede the spontaneous development of the autochthonous flora and fauna, particularly (i) the collection of medicinal plants, mushrooms and fruits, (ii) collecting snails, (iii) disturbance and hunting of game, birds, etc., (iv) collection of eggs from birds and other.

•

Prohibition of fire ignition due to potential fires, and consequently, causing irreversible damage to environmental resources and biodiversity features.

•

Limitation of construction areas with heavy construction machinery, to prevent impacts on wildlife.

(B)

Specific mesures for reducing the impacts

Plant communities, habitats and flora The specific measures for reduction of the impacts along sections of the route of the transmission line, in the context of its reference points (RP) are given below. Section: RP 1 - RP 2 (i)

There are relatively small areas with halophytic vegetation, where dominant species is Camphorosma monspeliaca (41°47'01''N / 22°10'06''E / 313 m and 41°47'08’'N / 22°10 '02 'E / 330 m). Measure: Towers will not be located at the above sites, nor there will be construction of access roads.

(ii)

At the site with coordinates 41°47'12''N / 22°09'58''E / 337 m, there are relatively small areas with hilly pastures, where the community of Astragalo-Morinetum Micevski 1971 grows. Measure: Avoid placing towers and construction of access roads in this area. If necessary for this purpose, surfaces with the community Chrysopogon gryllus should be used. This community develops with contact with the previous community in its immediate vicinity, and is not endangered, and that should be taken into account when taking any kind of road activities. If, during the construction work it is impossible to avoid areas with the community Astragalo-Morinetum, it should be considered, to reduce the degradation of the area to a minimum.

(iii)

Small populations of rare endemic species Salvia jurisicii Košanin develops at the site Ezhovo Pole (41°47'12''N; 22°09'58''E; 337 m). Measure: In order to preserve this population with very low biological vitality, the construction of this part of the route will be done with high attention. It is

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recommended to have compulsory presence of a botanist in the field of construction activities at this point. Section: RP 2 - RP 3 (iv)

Present in relatively small areas with hilly pastures that develop the community Astragalo-Morinetum Micevski 1971 (41°47'20''N / 22°09'59''E / 373 m). Measure: the same measure referred to in item (ii) applies.

Секција: RP 3 - RP 4 (v)

Present in relatively small areas with hilly pastures that develop the community Astragalo-Morinetum Micevski 1971 (41°48'50''N / 22°08'53''E / 425 m). Measure: the same measure referred to in item (ii) applies.

Section: RP 4 - RP 5 (vi)

Present in areas with hilly pastures that develop the community AstragaloMorinetum Micevski 1971 (41°50'17''N / 22°08'17''E / 425 m). Measure: the same measure referred to in item (ii) applies.

(vii)

Between the villages Vrsakovo and Sudich, there is a beautiful population of the endemic species Salvia jurisicii Košanin (41°50'19''N / 22°08'17''E / 415 m). Measure: This point should be avoided in construction activities - for setting towers, construction of access roads, movement of machinery and workers, and for the preservation of this population which is with low biological vitality. It is recommended to have compulsory presence of a botanist in the field of construction activities in this point. If construction activities must inevitably be conducted on this location, measures should be taken for dislocation of the population of Salvia jurisicii to a close location with similar environmental conditions.

Section: RP 5 - RP 6 (viii)

Present in areas with hilly pastures that develop the community AstragaloMorinetum Micevski 1971 (41°51'35''N / 22°05'44''E / 440 m). Measure: the same measure referred to in item (ii) applies.

(ix)

In this section a small population of endemic species Onobrychis megalophylla Boiss develops between the villages Mustafino and Stanulovci (41°51'39''N / 22°05'38''E / 401 m). Measure: The population of this endemic species listed in the site is small and almost insignificant in relation to the whole range of species in Macedonia. The construction activities will be conducted carefully. Possible degradation of its habitat will not significantly affect the overall situation of this kind.

Section: RP 6 – RP 7 (x)

In this section, small areas of halophytic vegetation is present, and dominant is Camphorosma monspeliaca (41°54'01''N / 22°04'20''E / 472 m).

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Measure: The towers will not be located at the above sites, nor will be the construction of access roads. Section: РТ 8 – РТ 9 (xi)

In this section, there are small areas with halophytic vegetation, where the dominated type is Camphorosma monspeliaca (41°55'31''N / 22°01'01''E / 566 m). Measure: The towers will not be located at the above sites, nor will be the construction of access roads.

(xii)

There are areas with hilly pastures that develop the community Astragalo-Morinetum Micevski 1971 (41°55'31''N / 22°01'01''E / 566 m). Measure: the same measure referred to in item (ii) applies.

(xiii)

The endemic plant species Verbascum lesnovoensis Micev. is present, and has limited distribution in eastern and northeastern parts of Macedonia. It is characterized by very vital biological populations. Registered in the locality Cuculicaat height of the v. Nemanjica (41°55'33''N / 22°00'57''E / 547 m). Measure: The population of this endemic species in the site is compact, and is part of the continuous range of species in Macedonia. Careful construction activities are recommended, and measures for dislocation of endangered individuals in a close location with similar environmental conditions.

Section: RP 9 – RP 10 (xiv)

This section has areas with hilly pastures that develop the community AstragaloMorinetum Micevski 1971 (41°59'18''N / 21°56'50''E / 465 m). Measure: the same measure referred to in item (ii) applies.

(xv)

The endemic plant species Verbascum lesnovoensis Micev is present. It’s characterized with very vital biological populations. (41°56'53''N / 21°59'00''E / 652 m; 41°56'27''N / 21°59'20''E / 678 m; 41°58'07'' N / 21°58'17''E / 702 m). Measure: the same measure referred to in item (xiii) applies.

Section: RP 13 – RP 14 (xvi)

This section has areas of carbonate based hilly pastures, along r. Pcinja, which has the community from the alliance Saturejo-Thymion Micevski 1971 (42°06'46''N / 21°49'54''E / 279 m).

(xvii)

Measure: No need for concrete measures, because the construction activities at the site would not reflect negatively on the survival of this community, because it is widespread in the zone of hilly pastures on the territory of Macedonia.

Fauna •

Generally, the danger of collision of birds with the transmission cables and their electrocution can be reduced by design measures: -

Design and installation of conductors and isolators under (i) the recommendation of the Bern Convention no.110/2004, (ii) Resolution of 7.4 (Bonn) Convention on the protection of migratory species and (iii) recommendations of the working group Birdlife International for birds and transmission lines (2007).

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-

Designing and inserting diverters at the intersection of the transmission line and r. Pcinja (between the v. Zubovce and RP 13).

-

Concerning the nests of significant species, it is necessary to design and incorporate diverters and flashing buffers for birds near the v. Orel and the v. Dolno Gjugjance, at a distance that is part of the protection zone within a radius of 2,5 km from the golden eagle’s nest with coordinates: N: 41-56-50 / E: 21-5950, or the imperial eagle’s nest at the coordinates N :41-57-08 / E :21-57-39, from RP9 to RP10.

•

The eventual penetration of new access roads should be carried out far from woodlands (minimum distance of 200 meters), because they are favorable place for nourishment of birds and bats. That way, it will eliminate the potential danger of directing birds and bats to the towers, and the possibility of collision.

•

In this context, the possibility of installing towers directly in forests and woodlands is excluded.

•

Avoiding to leave open pits for a longer period during the construction phase, due to the possibility of immigration of reptiles, mammals or insects.

Operational phase Plant communities, habitats and flora In the operational phase, the transmission line is not expected to have significant adverse impacts on plant species, plant communities and habitats, and therefore specific measures and recommendations for eliminating the potential impacts are not necessary. Fauna The transmission lines have the greatest potential adverse impact on bats and birds. The probable negative impacts on these species in the operational phase will be significantly reduced through the implementation of the previously established design and construction measures. The following recommendations are made in respect to these groups: •

In the case of determining the real negative impacts on raptors (golden eagle and the imperial eagle) during the monitoring activities, during the operational phase of the project, provided by this EIA study, the possible action would be to lay down the aforementioned sections of the OHL underground.

•

Avoid lighting the transmission line (except what is required by legal and technical regulations), because that way, their likely negative effect tends to increase, especially in terms of attracting migratory birds and bats.

•

During the operational phase of the transmission line, the most important measure to reduce the potential negative effect on the active groups of animals (birds and bats) would be the plan for monitoring the adverse impact. It is the basis for monitoring the current situation with the effects of transmission line on the mentioned species, and allows identification of possible additional measures to reduce them, in the context of the particular case. The interconnective transmission line from Stip to the Macedonian-Serbian border is 70 km long and, therefore, it should be bared in mind that, in different areas along its route, there are different environmental conditions or potentials for greater or lesser adverse impact. 127

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Commissioning phase Considering that this project phase includes demolition / dismantling of various elements of the transmission line, and their removal out of the corridor route, it will set an identical regime of measures as in the construction phase. Additionally, it will be necessary to eliminate the probable danger of destroying the nests of birds located on the towers.

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5.3

Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact on the Geology and Soils

Design and construction phase To establish conditions for avoidance of potential impacts of the transmission line on the geological structures and soil, hydrogeological facilities, and engineering-geological processes, in the stage of detailed planning and design, it is necessary to implement the following measures: •

•

•

Choosing the appropriate variant solution while dimensioning the route of the transmission line, and the access roads on the sections where the underground line facilities (pipe transmission line and canals) are. Those are the registered: ¾

Underground channel (pipeline) for irrigation, between RP3 and RP4

¾

Underground channel (pipeline), immediately after RP4

¾

Discharge pipeline with a reservoir, from "Pavlev Dol" to the vineyards in the locality "Kampur" between RP10 and RP11

¾

Underground gravitational pipeline for watersupply, from the v. Nikuljane to the v. Jarebichari, between RP 4 and RP15.

Choosing the appropriate variant solution, when dimensioning the route of the transmission line and the access roads on the sections and sites, where there is registered possibility for potential direct or indirect pollution (through water appearances and objects) of aqueous rock masses (hydrogeological collectors). The following sites are registered: ¾

Site "Pavlev Dol" (before RP11), where periodically, for irrigation purposes, ~ 10 l / s is exploited through an exploitation well from the karst-hole in the Upper Eocene slaty limestone (3E3).

¾

Site v. Nikuljane (between RP14 and RP15), where~ 10 l / s is exploited through an exploitation well from the karst-hole in the Paleozoic marble (M), for the water supply of more villages (neighborhood) s in Staro Negorichane.

Geodetic recording and repairs of potentially sensitive engineering-geological appearances and processes and dredging. Those are the registered appearances and processes that have potential for causing geological hazards in terms of security and stability of transmission structures: ¾

fossil excavation pit at about 200 meters south of RP8

¾

Intensive dredging and fossil excavation pits under RP9

¾

Intensive dredging of the western slope of the hill "Crvena Suma", between RP9 and RP10

¾

Excavation pit at about 300 meters southeast of RP12 or about 170-180 meters perpendicular to the span of the route.

To eliminate and reduce potential impacts of the transmission line on the geology and soils, hydrogeological and engineering facilities, and geological processes in the stage of construction, it is necessary to implement management measures, including: •

Adoption of good construction practices and management of construction sites.

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•

If necessary, install and maintain control measures for erosion and sedimentation along the drainage lines, to prevent transport of sediment from construction sites, along the length of transmission line route.

•

Restrict the removal of vegetation and its progressive elimination, according the degree of progress of construction works, in order to reduce the surface area of exposed soil and duration of exposure.

•

Progressive rehabilitation and stabilization of disturbed earth surfaces, in order to reduce erosion.

•

Covering or planting of vegetation on graveled material, in case the material is needed for a longer period.

•

Removal of trench rampart material, immediately when possible.

•

Provision of equipment / vessels for the evacuation of leakages.

•

Securing the equipment / vessels for leakage evacuations.

After the completion of construction works and installation of towers, the fertile soils in the construction sites will be promptly removed and stored for re-vegetation and transplantation.

Operational phase Basic prerequisite for eliminating the potential impacts of this project phase is the selection of appropriate and technically correct construction machinery and vehicles. During the maintenance and service activities, the staff will be responsible to comply with the requirements regarding the prevention of possible situations of fuel or oil leakage from vehicles.

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5.4

Mitigation Mesures for Reducing the Impact on the Air Quality

Construction phase The measures for reduction of potential impacts of emissions of dust in the air, during the construction phase, include procedures for good construction practice: •

Minimizing the open excavation areas

•

Minimizing the stockpiling by proper coordination of earth works and excavation activities (excavation, extension, grading, compacting, etc.)

•

Reducing the fugitive dust emission by applying water sprinkling measures

•

Temporary termination / restriction of construction work if intensive fugitive dust emission occurs, while elimination measures are put in place

•

Reducing the traffic intensity on selected roads and introducing speed limit measures

•

As much as possible, remain existing vegetation around and on the construction site

•

Implementing phased measures for remediation of the construction site, in parallel with progress of construction activities

Operational phase At this stage of lifecycle of the project, emission of pollutants above the limit values is not expected and, consequently, no protection measures are provided.

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5.5

Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact on the Quality of Surface Waters

Construction phase Eventual construction zones will be established at the appropriate distance from near surface waters. The general measures for reduction of the potential impacts of discharges in the surface waters, in the construction phase include procedures of good construction practice: •

If necessary, implementation of control measures for erosion and sedimentation through the establishment of temporary drainage, for diverting of potentially dangerous surface water, originating from construction sites.

•

Minimizing the stockpiling out of the construction site and avoiding areas close to watercourses

•

Locating stockpiles outside the drainage lines, surface water and road surfaces.

•

Removing the stockpiles asap

•

Provision of equipment for evacuation of leakages.

•

Setting up mobile toilets at a distance greater than 100 meters from the drainage lines.

•

Contracting authorized service company for management and disposal of waste water from the mobile toilets.

Operational phase Bearing in mind the sources of potential pollution, the measures for reduction of the potential impacts of emissions in surface waters in the operational phase include, above all, activities for the maintenance of access roads. During the maintenance and control activities, the personnel will be responsible to comply with the requirements for municipal order, in respect of dumping of waste near surface waters, and in relation to situations of leakage of fuel or oil from vehicles.

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5.6

Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact from Noise

Construction phase Relevant regulations concerning the management of construction activities will be fully respected. Construction, transport activities, including materials and equipment near the settlement, which imply increased emission of harmful noise, will be conducted during the holidays, especially during the night and through the weekend. All construction procedures will be properly planned to reduce the time of utilization of equipment that creates most intense harmful noise. Working hours and rules will be established based on the needs to reduce the noise causing nuisance and disturbance, especially by avoiding the cumulative effect of increased noise due to simultaneous operation of different kinds of construction machinery and equipment.

Operational phase At this stage of the lifecycle of the project, noise emissions above the noise limit values are not expected. As a preventive measure for elimination of the potential impact of noise due to the corona effect, there will be regular controls of the transmission line conductors and vibration buffers. MEPSO will overtake activites for monitoring of noise if there is an evidence of noise resulting from corona effect.

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5.7

Mitigation Measures for Sustainable Waste Management

Although the quantity of waste is not consideredsignificant, it is necessary to implement specific actions for sustainable treatment and waste management. During the life cycle of the 400 kV interconnective transmission line, an optimal approach to waste management will be established and implemented. This approach will have in consideration the requirements and obligations set out in the Macedonian legislation in the field of waste management. Depending on the actual possibilities and potentials of the current system of waste management in the wider area of the site, an attempt will be made for implement the contemporary hierarchy of EU waste management. Moreover, particular attention will be given to the opportunity to utilize recyclable fractions. Construction phase Based on identified expected types of waste, the management of different fractions of waste at this stage is given in the following table. Type / waste fraction Waste from packaging Municipal waste Construction waste / Other waste from construction and related works

Selection / Recycling / re-use Selection of those fractions which are of market interest Selection of those fractions which are of market interest Reuse for construction / Selection of those fractions are of market interest

Treatment Other fractions

Transport / processing / removal

Mixed waste

Licensed service provider(s)

Mixed waste

Licensed service provider(s)

Mixed waste

Licensed service provider(s) – landfill for disposal of construction waste (inert fraction)

Note

Fractions of hazardous waste will be separated

Management of hazardous fractions of waste The hazardous waste will be selected, in order to separate it from the non-hazardous and inert waste. It will be stored in special containers, and licensed service providers under the Law on Waste Management and the relevant secondary legislation, will be engaged for its removal from the area of the site and construction area. Operational phase Waste items and materials that will be created during the maintenance of the transmission line, or replacement of spare parts or equipment, will be transported outside the corridor of the route of the transmission line. The recyclable fractions will be introduced in the chain of recycling, through sales to licensed recyclers. Management of hazardous fractions of waste The hazardous fractions of waste that will be created during the operational phase (electromaterials, oils, chemicals, etc.), will be transferred to interested licensed companies.

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5.8

Mitigation Measures for Reducing the Impact on the Cultural Heritage

If artifacts are found during excavations, or there are indications that on certain sites along the route of the transmission line there is an archaeological good, the construction work will be terminated, and the competent public institution for protection of cultural heritage will be promptly notified. The specific sites will be secured and temporarily protected to avoid any negative implications for their security and status. The work contractor shall be obliged to comply with Macedonian legal requirements in a case of accidental archeological discovery as described in the chapter 4.11 of this study.

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5.9

Overview of the Mitigation Measures

Table - Compilation of mitigation measures at different stages of the life cycle of the project Environmental indicator

Mitigation measure

Implementation construction site preparation phase

design

operational phase

•

Biological diversity

Electromagnetic fields

Appropriate selection of the towers locations / spreading of the route in relation to settlements • Compliance with technical specifications for minimum height of the conductors Monitoring and measuring the levels of EMF - control of eventual exceeding of the limit values of exposure Avoiding sites on which significant habitats and endemic species of flora have been registered. Design measures to reduce the danger of collision with birds and electrocution, and performance of the same: • Conductors and insulators • Diverters and flashing diverters for birds Good construction practice: • Use of existing access roads • Prohibition and prevention of activities that would annoy the autochthonous flora and fauna • Prohibition of starting a fire • Fencing construction zones • Avoid leaving open pits for a longer period, because of the possibility reptiles, mammals or insects immigration Carefully conduct the construction work on sites where there is development of both communities - AstragaloMorinetum and Chrysopogon gryllus comm. Compulsory presence of the botanist in the field of the construction activities is recommended. • Control of the efficiency of measures / devices for reduction of the hazards to birds • Continuous monitoring (at least the first 3-5 years) of the impact on the fauna of birds.

√ √ √ √

√

√

√

√

√

√

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Noise

Geology and soil

Environmental indicator

Mitigation measure

Implementation construction site preparation phase

design

Selection of an appropriate solution for the route of the required transmission line and the required access roads, where there are underground line facilities Selection of an appropriate solution for the route of the transmission line and the access roads in the sections of localities where there is a possibility of potential direct or indirect pollution of the watersuplly rock masses (hydro geological collectors). Those are the following registered sites: • site "Pavlev Dol” (before RP11) • site v. Nikuljane (between RP14 and RP15) Geodetic recording and remediation of potentially sensitive engineering-geological appearances and processes of dredging and excavation of the registered appearances and processes, that have potential for causing geological hazards in terms of security and stability of the transmission structures: • fossil excavation pit approximately 200 m south of the RP8 • Intensive dredging and fossil excavation pits (RP9) • Intensive dredging of the western slope of "Crvena Suma" between RP9 and RP10 • Excavation pit about 300 meters southeast of the RP12 or about 170-180 meters perpendicular to the span of the route • Selection of proper machinery and vehicles • Adoption of good construction practices and management of construction sites • Adoption of good construction practice. • Implement appropriate operational activities and measures for compliance of the noise levels with the emission limit values. Regular control of the transmission line conductors and vibration absorbers, to eliminate the potential impact of noise due to corona effect.

operational phase

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√ 137

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Environmental indicator

Mitigation measure

design

Waste management

Air quality

Minimizing the open excavation areas Minimizing the stockpiling by proper coordination of earth works and excavation activities (excavation, extension, grading, compacting, etc.) Reducing the fugitive dust emission by applying water sprinkling measures Temporary termination / restriction of construction work if intensive fugitive dust emission occurs, while elimination measures are put in place Reducing the traffic intensity on selected roads and introducing speed limit measures As much as possible, remain existing vegetation around and on the construction site Implementing phased measures for remediation of the construction site, in parallel with progress of construction activities Packaging waste, municipal waste and construction waste: • Selection of those factions which are of market interest / recycling • Collection of mixed waste • Transportation, processing and disposal - licensed service providers Selection / recycling of packaging waste, waste from transmission line elements and materials Separation of the hazardous fractions of waste and disposal

Implementation construction site preparation phase

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

√

operational phase

√ √

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Cultural heritige

Water quality

Environmental indicator

Mitigation measure

design

If necessary, implementation of control measures for erosion and sedimentation through the establishment of temporary drainage, for diverting of potentially dangerous surface water, originating from construction sites. Minimizing the stockpiling out of the construction site and avoiding areas close to watercourses Locating stockpiles outside the drainage lines, surface water and road surfaces.

Implementation construction Site preparation phase

√

√

√

√

√

√

Removing the stockpiles asap

√

√

Provision of equipment for evacuation of leakages.

√

√

Setting up mobile toilets at a distance greater than 100 meters from the drainage lines. Contracting authorized service company for management and disposal of waste water from the mobile toilets. Adherence to the communal order in respect of the dumping of waste near surface waters, and in relation to situations of leakage of fuel or oil from vehicles. If artifacts are found during excavations, or there are indications that on certain sites along the route of the transmission line there is an archaeological good, the construction work will be terminated, and the competent public institution for protection of cultural heritage will be promptly notified. The specific sites will be secured and temporarily protected to avoid any negative implications for their security and status. The work contractor shall be obliged to comply with Macedonian legal requirements in a case of accidental archeological discovery.

√

√

√

√

operational phase

√

√

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6

Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan

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A.

Mitigation Plan

Project phase

Issue

Mitigation measure

Cost of Mitigation (If Substantial) Human health

Responsibility

•

Human health (electro - magnetic fields)

Habitats with: • halophytic vegetation • hilly pastures on limestone Design

• •

Endemic species of flora IUCN Species list

Ground fauna of vertebrates and invertebrates

• •

Fauna of Birds Birds of Prey: (i) Golden Eagle in the v. Orel (ii) Imperial eagle in the v. D. Gjugjance • Vicinity of wetlands (r.Pchinja)

Appropriate selection of the towers locations / spreading of the route in relation to settlements • Compliance with technical specifications for minimum height of the conductors Biological diversity In the process of planning / designing of the access roads and tower locations, to avoid sites on which significant habitats have been registered. In the process of planning / designing of the access roads to avoid sites with determined coordinates on which endemic species and globally important species have been registered. Planning / designing of the access roads through maximum use of existing roads. If this is impossible, then they can be planned into habitats with poor vegetation. Design measures for reduction of the danger of collision with birds, according the recommendations of relevant international documents and guidelines. • Conductors and isolators • Diverters and flashing diverters for birds.

141

Designer / Investor

Designer / Investor

Designer / Investor

Designer / Investor

Designer / Investor through an expert organization

Start date

End date

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Project phase

Issue

• • •

Geology, soils Quality of surface waters Erosion

Mitigation measure

Cost of Mitigation (If Substantial)

Adoption of good construction practice and construction zones management

Responsibility ∗)

Start date

End date

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

•

Construction / 1

Adoption of good construction practice and construction zones • Air quality management • Dust emissions • Dispersion of water at construction areas, for reduction of emissions of dust. • Selection / reuse, recycling target waste fractions Waste management • Removal of other factions by a licensed service provider • Adoption of good construction practice. • Taking additional operational Noise activities and measures for compliance of the noise levels with the emission limit values. If artifacts are found during excavations, or there are indications that on certain sites along the route of the transmission line there is an archaeological good, the construction work will be terminated, Cultural and and the competent public institution archeological heritage for protection of cultural heritage will be promptly notified. The work contractor shall be obliged to comply with Macedonian legal requirements in a case of accidental archeological discovery. ∗) Responsibilities of the contractor will be specified in the tender documentation for construction works 142

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Project phase

Issue

Mitigation measure

Cost of Mitigation (If Substantial) Biological diversity

Responsibility ∗)

Start date

End date

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

• •

Construction / 2

Use of existing access roads. Prohibition and prevention of activities that would annoy the autochthonous flora and fauna, particulary (i) the collection of medicinal plants, mushrooms and fruits, (ii) collecting General measures snails, (iii) disturbance and hunting of game, birds, etc., (iv) collection of eggs from birds and other. • Prohibition of starting a fire. • Fencing construction zones with heavy machinery. Careful execution of the construction work at localities where on contact, the two communities - Astragalo-Morinetum and Chrysopogon gryllus comm. mosaicly • Habitats with develop. For construction purpose, the halophytic vegetation surfaces on which community • Habitats with hilly Chrysopogon gryllus has been developed pastures on limestone can be used. This habitat is not endangered and is widely spread in Macedonia. Compulsory presence of a botanist in the field of construction activities is recommended. Avoidance of construction works, for the preservation of populations of these Endemic species: endemic species. If construction work is • Salvia jurisicii, (IUCN) inevitable, measures for dislocation of • Onobrychis populations of similar items with similar, megalophylla ecological conditions have to be taken. • Verbascum Compulsory presence of a botanist in the lesnovoensis field of construction activities is recommended. ∗) Responsibilities of the contractor will be specified in the tender documentation for construction works 143

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Project phase

Issue

Mitigation measure

Cost of Mitigation (If Substantial)

Responsibility ∗)

Start date

End date

contractor / investor

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

according to the procurement plan / construction dinamics

Construction / 3

•

Fauna of vertebrates and invertebrates, with emphasis on species of national and European importance

• •

Quality of surface waters and soil Erosion

Operation

Noise

Electro-magnetic fileds

Execution of measures designed to reduce hazards to birds • Construction of pits for foundaments according precise dynamics. • To avoid leaving open pits for a longer period, because of the possibility for immigration of reptiles, mammals or insects. • Maintenance of access roads • Prevention of leakage of fuels, oils, chemicals. Regular control of transmission line conductors and vibration absorbers, to eliminate the potential impact of noise due to corona effect. Monitoring and measuring the levels of EMF - control the eventual exceeding of the limit values for exposure. Macedonia has no regulation regarding EMF. The recommendations of ICNPR and EU will be followed.

• •

Fauna of Birds • Control of the efficiency of the Birds of Prey: measures / devices for reduction of (iii) Golden Eagle in the v. Orel the hazards to birds (iv) Imperial eagle in the • Continuous monitoring (at least the first 3-5 years) of the impact on the v. D. Gjugjance fauna of birds. • Vicinity of wetlands (r.Pchinja) ∗) Responsibilities of the contractor will be specified in the tender documentation for construction works

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investor

continuously

investor

continuously

investor / licenced company for EMF measurement

continuously

investor

investor from an expert organization

continuously

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

B.

Monitoring Plan

Design

Project What parameter is to be phase monitored?

Human health: • Design measures to reduce the risk of electro-magnetic fields (EMF) Biodiversity: • Utilization of existing access roads / planning of new roads • Micro locating of the towers • Design measures to reduce the danger of collision with birds

Monitoring How When Cost is the is the parameter What is the cost Where parameter to be to be monitored- of equipment or is the parameter Responsibility monitored/ type frequency of contractor to be monitored? of monitoring measurement or charges to equipment? continuous? perform monitoring?

Start date

along the route (near the settlements)

Control of the stage of detailed project design documentation

Designer / Investor

continuously in the phase of detailed design

along the route (determined sites)

Control of the stage of detailed project design documentation

Designer / Investor

continuously in the phase of detailed design

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End date

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

along the route

Visual

•

Geology, soils Quality of surface waters Erosion

• •

Air quality Dust emissions

along the route

Visual

Waste management

along the route

Visual

Noise

along the route

Instrument for measuring noise

Cultural and archeological heritage

along the route

Visual

End date

construction phase construction phase (dry and windy periods) construction phase during intensive construction activities construction phase

Biodiversity: • fragmentation of habitats • construction of access seasonal roads / tower in the (vegetation area of vulnerable along the route periods of plants, Visual / habitats etc.) / (at certain critical • conservation of Expert advices in relevant localities) populations of construction endemic species stages • installation of measures (equipment) for reduction of the impacts on birds 146

Investor (technical supervision)

Investor / (Administration for cultural heritage)

Investor / (Administration for Environment – MEPP)

According plan / construction dynamics

Construction

• •

Start date

According plan/ construction dynamics

Project What parameter is to be phase monitored?

Monitoring How When Cost is the is the parameter What is the cost Where parameter to be to be monitored- of equipment or is the parameter Responsibility monitored/ type frequency of contractor to be monitored? of monitoring measurement or charges to equipment? continuous? perform monitoring?

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

Project What parameter is to be phase monitored?

Monitoring How When Cost is the is the parameter What is the cost Where parameter to be to be monitored- of equipment or is the parameter Responsibility monitored/ type frequency of contractor to be monitored? of monitoring measurement or charges to equipment? continuous? perform monitoring?

Operation

• Surface

water quality and soils • Erosion

along the route

Noise

along the route at locations where Instrument for audio-noise from measuring corona effect has noise been reported

Electro-magnetic fields (EMF)

along the route

Visual

End date

continuosly

continuosly

Investor (Administration for continuosly Environment – MEPP)

continuosly

periodicly (once a year) upon compliant by concerned party

after putting it into function / Equipment for if necessary, if measuring EMF the standards for EMF are not met

Biodiversity: • Monitoring the effect of measures along the route (equipment) for Visual reduction of the (determined impacts on birds critical localities) (number of collisions / electrocution with fatal outcome for birds)

Start date

seasonal

147

Investor (Maintainance Unit)

Investor (company licenced for EMF measurement)

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

7

Project Justification and Conlcusion

7.1

Introduction

This chapter includes an assessment of how the project for establishment of 400 kV interconnective transmission line between Macedonia and Serbia, contributes to the efforts of Republic of Macedonia to achieve the objectives of sustainable development. It also includes a review of the project data and information that support and justify the project implementation. Primary benefits of the project can be summarized as follows: •

Improvement of the conditions for transfer of eletricity between Macedonia and Serbia.

•

Improvement of the quality, reliability and flexibility of the power supply systems in the region.

•

Increasing the overall capacity of electric energy corridor north - south.

•

Improving power line voltage profiles of electrical systems.

•

Reduction of the energy overloads of the existing power supply grid.

7.2

Sustainable Development

The basic principles of the sustainable development concept include: •

"Precautionary Principle" according to which, if there is reasonable suspicion that a particular activity may cause harmful effects on the environment, necessary measures for protection are taken, before scientific evidence shows that such adverse consequences could occur.

•

Inter-generational equity, whereby the present generation should ensure the maintenance and promotion of healthy, diverse, and productive environment for future generations.

•

Conservation of biodiversity and ecological integrity.

The reasons that juastify the project regarding the principles of sustainable development are described below. Precautionary Principle MEPSO adopted the precautionary principle, through the process of designing the transmission line and proposed measures for mitigation of potential environmental impacts. MEPSO will conduct monitoring of environmental impacts. In the event of an outbreak and recording deviations in terms of expected conditions they will investigate them, and implement appropriate measures for prevention of adverse effects on the environment. The proposed transmission line will use proven modern technology, with known impacts and effects on the environment, which in turn, allow known and effective measures and procedures for management and control. Inter-generation equity The proposed transmission line will contribute to meeting the current and future demand for energy in the region. The successful implementation of the project for establishment of 400 kV interconnective 148

Environmental Impact Assessment Study for 400 kV OHL SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian Border

transmission line, according to the guidelines given in this study, will provide safer and more stable electricity supply for future generations, without environmental degradation. It will contribute to improving the situation and conditions for further economic development and increased social benefits. Conservation of biodiversity and ecological integrity During the implementation of various project phases, certain measures for reduction of impacts on biodiversity will be implemented. Accordingly, the proposed project will not cause significant impacts on biodiversity and ecological integrity of the area along the route of the transmission line. 7.3

Environmental Impact Assessment

According to the requirements stipulated in the Law on Environment and the relevant secondary legislation, the planning process of the project for construction of interconnective transmission line includes analysis environmental protection aspects. The main results of the evaluation of environmental impacts are provided in continuation. According to the results of the analysis, where necessary, measures will be taken to reduce impacts and to contribute toward sustainable environmental management. Electro - magnetic fields EMF are result of the generation, transmission, distribution, and use of electricity. They are present in the vicinity of the operating electrical equipment. The intensity of the electric field is measured in the unit "volt per meter" (V / m), and varies in function of the differences of the potentials between the conductors, land and nearby objects. The magnetic fields are described using the concept of density flux (magnetic induction). These fields are measured in unit "Tesla" (T). The intensity of the EMF from transmission installations depends on the voltage level of the line, and progressively decreases with the increase of the distance from the conductor. Previous measurements of the values of EMF by various institutions, for relatively low security level of phase conductor, from 10 meters above the ground, determined an electric field of 6.7 kV / m, and magnetic induction of 42.9 μT. Taking into account the defined limit values for exposure to EMF, it can be concluded that this, and higher altitudes of the phase conductor, the temporary presence of people in the vicinity of 400 kV transmission line, is not likely to have a harmful effect on their health. Through implementation of appropriate design and operational measures, MEPSO will provide conditions for elimination of the effects of EMF on human health. These measures include: (i) proper selection of locations for towers / spreading of the route in terms of settlements, (ii) respecting the technical specifications for minimum height of conductors, and (iii) monitoring and measuring the levels of EMF - control the eventual exceeding of the limit values of exposure, during the operational phase of the transmission line. Flora and fauna With the implementation of appropriate measures and activities in the phases of design, construction, and operation, the transmission line will not cause serious negative effect on biotope composition of the area, natural habitats, flora and fauna.

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Due to careful planning of the route of the transmission line, the need for clearing vegetation, trees and forest covers is was reduced to a minimum. Geology and soil Expected impacts of the transmission line on the geological structures and soil in the phase of construction would be in the form of degradation and soil erosion, and violation of certain geological formations. The risk of erosion of soil is limited, mainly to localities where the towers will be prepared, assembled, and installed. With the implementation of good construction practice, the likely impacts will be controlled, and are not expected to cause serious adverse effects. Air quality The potential impacts from dust emissions on local air quality during the construction phase will be reduced through the proposed measures. During its operation, the transmission line will have no harmful gas emissions into the ambient air. Hydrology and water quality The potential impacts on the quality of surface water may occur as a result of erosion and sedimentation, and inadequate waste management. Measures have been proposed, to reduce potential impacts, and their implementation will allow a negligible impact effect on water quality. During the construction of the transmission line, no impact on groundwater is expected, because the construction works include shallow pits. Noise Emission of noise during the construction phase is imminent. Having in mind the distance of most of the individual locations of the towers from the settlements, and the fact that the issue of construction noise is short term and of discontinued nature, significant and irreversible impact on the environment and local population is not expected. Through adoption of good construction practice, the noise levels will be within the emission limit values. During its operational phase, the transmission line will generate harmful noise emmisions in the immediate surroundings and environment. In this phase, there is possible occurrence of disturbing noise due to the corona effect, i.e. electrical discharges around the conductor cables. The corona effect is a common phenomenon associated with all energy transmission lines. The noise from the corona effect is directly depending on certain physical parameters of the environment, particularly the presence of forest belts, morphology of the terrain, etc. The corona effect in the transmissions lines has been explored in detail in the recent decades. Consequently, the corona effect is known, and when designing the transmission lines, measures for its minimization are implemented, particularly for high-voltage transmission lines with voltage levels above 300 kV. Proper choice of conductor dimensions for the transmission line will reduce the localized electric blast on the air on the surface of the conductor, and will further reduce the surface gradient on the same level that would cause very small and negligible corona activity.

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Visual aspects At certain sites, the new 400 kV interconnective transmission line causes limited visual changes to the existing landscape and scenery. Because of (i) the relatively thin design of the towers and (ii) the principle of selection of the route corridor, which is parallel with already existing structures / transmission line, as well as (iii) significant distances from settlements, the visual effect of the transmission line will be insignificant. Noticeable visual change will occur only at points where the transmission line crosses with roads and places of bridging deep valleys and ravines. Cultural heritage If artifacts are found during excavations, or there are indications that on certain sites along the route of the transmission line there is an archaeological good, the construction work will be terminated. The specific sites will be secured and temporarily protected to avoid any negative implications for their security and status. Waste management During its life cycle, the transmission line will create different types and fractions of waste, including municipal waste, packaging waste and waste from construction activities. Additionally, creation of minor quantities of certain fractions of hazardous waste is expected. During its life cycle, the transmission line will have an established and implemented optimal approach for waste management. This approach will be in compliance with the requirements and obligations set out in the Macedonian legislation in the field of waste management.

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7.4

Conclusion

The interconnective 400 kV transmission line between Macedonia and Serbia represents an important energy initiative and effort to improving the quality, reliability and flexibility of electricity supply in the region. Bearing in mind the results of the study for environmental impact assessment, and the principles of sustainable development, the construction and operation of the interconnective 400 kV transmission line is justified because: 9

Environmental issues related to all stages of the life cycle of the transmission line are fully identified and taken into account.

9

The assessment of the environmental impacts is based on best available information and consideration of cumulative impacts.

9

The identified likely impacts can be eliminated or reduced and, therefore, the proposed transmission line is not a threat for serious or irreversible damage to the environment.

9

The proposed transmission line will not cause impacts on biodiversity and ecological integrity of the area.

The environmental impacts associated with the proposed project are identified, and addressed in this study according to the requirements of the Macedonian regulation for EIA, best international practices and guidelines in the EIA scoping report, submitted by the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning. MEPSO will implement the proposed measures for reduction of the environmental impacts, to ensure that the effects are maintained at acceptable levels throughout the life cycle of the interconnective transmission line. During the preparation of this study, no significant negative impacts on environment and human health were determined. The identified impacts are standard, and can be avoided or reduced through the implementation of appropriate measures and controls.

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References and Used Literature

1.

(Bern) Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats; Recommendation No. 110 (2004) of the Standing Committee on minimizing adverse effects of above-ground electricity transmission facilities (power transmission line) on birds, adopted by the Standing Committee on 3 December 2004; http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/cultureheritage/nature/WCD/Rec2004_en.asp

2.

(Bonn) Convention on Migratory Species; Resolution 7.4: Electrocution of Migratory Birds, adopted by the Conference of the Parties at its Seventh Meeting (Bonn, 18-24 September 2002); http://www.cms.int

3.

Annual Report from processed data on environmental quality - 2007, the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning

4.

Annual Report from processed data on environmental quality - 2008, the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning

5.

Guide transmission line for Limiting Exposure to Time-varying Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields (up to 300 GHz); International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection, 1998

6.

Extremely Low Frequency Fields; World Health Organization (WHO), 2007

7.

Selection of optimum route for 400 kV interconnective transmission line SS Stip – Macedonian-Serbian border; MEPSO, October 2008

8.

Indicative map of the Pan-European Ecological Network for Southeastern Europe; European Centre for Nature Conservation (ECNC), 2006

9.

The climate in Macedonia; Angel Lazarevski, 1993

10. Land Acquisition / Expropriation Policy Framework for Construction of Electrical Transmission Facilities (Transmission line and Substations), MEPSO 11. Meteorology and climatology; Dr. Mihajlo Zikov, 2000 12. Census of Agriculture, 2007, State Statistical Office 13. Census of population, households and dwellings in Macedonia, 2002; State Statistical Office, 2005 14. Spatial Plan of Republic of Macedonia 2002 – 2020 15. Possible effects of Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) on Human Health; Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks - SCENIHR, EU Commission, 2007 16. Preliminary Environment Impact Assessment; Project: 400 kV OHTL SS Skopje 5 – Border – SS Nis 2, Section: SS Skopje 5 – Macedonian Serbian border; ESM, 2004 17. Spatial Plan of Republic of Macedonia (adopted in 2004) 18. Regulating Power Line EMF Exposure: International Precedents; Environmental Law Centre, Canada, 2005 19. Sectoral Guide for EIA – Transmission lines; MEPP, 2006 20. Strategy and action plan for protection of the biodiversity in Republic of Macedonia; MEPP, 2003 21. Study on the state of biodiversity in Macedonia; MEPP, 2004

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22. Study for selection of an optimized alternative for connection points of the new 400 kV connection to Serbia; MEPSO, November 2007 23. Tectonics of Macedonia; Dr. Milan Arsovski, 1997 24. Conditions for spatial planning for preparation of urban design for the construction of 400 kV interconnective transmission line SS Stip - Macedonian-Serbian border, Agency for Spatial Planning, December 2008 25. World Bank Operational Policy 4.01 – Environmental Assessment 26. www.mepso.com.mk 27. www.meteo.com.mk 28. www.moepp.gov.mk 29. www.kumanovo.gov.mk 30. www.staronagoricane.gov.mk 31. www.stip.gov.mk 32. www.svetinikole.gov.mk 33. www.worldbank.org

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