Iberdrola releases bat protection plan

MADRID, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Spanish energy company Iberdrola Renewables released the wind industry's first protection plan for bats and birds.

The company-wide Avian and Bat Protection plan is the first of its kind in the wind industry and establishes a plan to help the company develop wind while addressing wildlife concerns.

There are currently 836 species of migratory birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and many birds and bats are protected by the Endangered Species Act and other federal and state wildlife statutes.

"The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service commends Iberdrola Renewables for seeking ways to minimize bird and bat deaths at their wind turbine facilities while pursuing renewable energy development in an environmentally responsible way," said Service Director H. Dale Hall.

The plan contains new policy about wildlife protection and creates a process for connecting with wildlife agencies during site assessments.

"Environmental protection is integral to how we conduct company business," said Terry Hudgens, chief executive officer of Iberdrola Renewables.