1. Does N2k standard data form cause unequal treatment of energy infrastructure (PCI)?
Aleš Kregar, Elektro-Slovenija, d. o. o.
Brussels, May 3rd 2013

2. COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING DECISION on 11 July 2011 concerning a site information format for Natura 2000 sites (notified under document C(2011) 4892) (2011/484/EU):
The following ranking system should be used:
A: excellent representativity (100 ≥p > 15 %),
B: good representativity (15 ≥p > 2 %),
C: significant representativity (2 ≥p > 0 %).
D: non-significant presence.
„— RELATIVE SURFACE: = A(b) of Annex III: Area of the site covered by the natural habitat type in relation to the total area covered by that natural habitat type within the national territory.“

3. Hypothetical example:
Bird species living in central habitat with density of 1000 per km2 and external border area with density of 100 per km2.
Three counties:
X = 100 km2,
Y = 10 km2,
Z = 10 km2.
PCI = 1 km2.

4. Graphycal presentation:
External border area
Central habitat
Country X Z Y
PCI
PCI
PCI

5. Result (Outcome):

6. Conclusions: Suggestion:
Representativity in N2k standard data form depends on the size of the country.
Country Z is in the most unfavourable position because it is in the external border area where population density is lower (possibly because of unfavourable living conditions for observed bird species).
Suggestion:
Impact assessment of PCI on protected bird species should take in account the whole population, independent of the size of the country.

7. Thank you for your attention.