Infographic Simulations using Photographs as a Method to Gain Greater Social Acceptance for Projected Lines and Substations

摘要

One of the greatest stumbling blocks in developing projects for new power transmission lines and substations is the opposition to such structures on the part of the affected individuals and organizations. One of the main reasons for this opposition is the difficulty people have in evaluating how a new line, substation or related infrastructure may affect the landscape they are used to. The aim of the infographic simulations is to help people visualize the effects, especially visual or scenic, likely to be produced on the landscape of the proposed line. This paper gives a description of the method used and shows infographic simulations carried out by Red Electrica on several of its lines. Since the medium involved is photographic those affected can easily recognize the territory featured in the simulation. As regards new line projects, examples are given of two alternative routes studied for a line passing close to a castle, and the visual impact of replacing a single-circuit line by a double-circuit line. In the case of substations, three simulations are shown for the different phases of locating of a new substation: Before the work is started; the substation's switchgear at the end of the construction and assembly work and, finally, the substation's appearance after the surrounding area has been landscaped, with simulations of plant screens, embankment treatment and other treatments. The results of this method have in general been satisfactory, allowing the opinion of all those involved to be taken into account and helping to make the new lines and structures more readily acceptable.