This 225,000-volt power line linking the Passy (74) substations to Malgovert (Bourg St-Maurice, 73), supplies the Arve Valley and transports the hydroelectric production of the Haute Tarentaise. Culminating at 2,650 m above sea level, this line is one of the highest in France. The long-distance hiking trail of the Tour du Mont-Blanc will be slightly diverted accordingly and markings will be installed to ensure the safety of hikers.
The 225,000-volt line linking the Passy (74) and Malgovert (Bourg St-Maurice, 73) substations contributes to the power supply of the Arve Valley and the transmission of hydroelectric production from the Haute Tarentaise. Culminating at 2650 m above sea level, this mountain line is very impacted by climatic events that can sometimes be extreme (storm, snow, frost). To ensure the continuity of power supply and ensure that every second the current passes, RTE replaces 5.6 km of damaged electrical cables.
After a first stage carried out between June and July, which consisted of carrying out preparatory work, including reinforcing certain electricity pylon structures, RTE teams will now replace damaged cables between the end of August and the beginning of October. An operation that will mobilize nearly 100 RTE employees and exceptional technical resources on site.
Protecting biodiversity
In partnership with ASTERS-Conservatoire d'Espaces Naturels 74, RTE will also install 112 bird beacons. These red and yellow balls hung on the electrical cables make it possible to avoid collisions with birds, especially the bearded vulture, present in the area, and are specially designed for mountain areas.
The GR5 secured
To guarantee the safety of hikers, RTE puts in place safety devices when the trail crosses the power line. These measures consist of installing scaffolding or protective cables attached to concrete blocks to prevent an electrical cable from falling on the trail during the work. For the safety of all, hikers must imperatively stay on the GR 5 trails and follow the indicated markings.
