Rhode Island Energy takes proactive steps to protect ospreys and improve electric reliability

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (April 14, 2026) - As spring nesting season begins, Rhode Island Energy (RIE) is continuing its work to protect ospreys while maintaining safe and reliable electric service by addressing nests built near electrical infrastructure.

From March to September, RIE environmental specialists often find themselves devoted to protecting osprey nests across the state. Ospreys that breed in Rhode Island migrate to the Caribbean and Central and South America for the winter, and in early spring, mature pairs, who mate for life, return to the same nest in March.

Ospreys often seek elevated locations for nesting, and in some cases, that includes utility poles or RIE infrastructure. When nests are located too close to power lines, RIE environmental specialists and field crews assess the situation and, when appropriate, install dedicated nesting platforms nearby, giving the birds a safer alternative location.

"Our approach is about planning and balance," said Jonathan Ducharme, Senior Environmental Professional at RIE. "We want to keep wildlife safe and undisturbed whenever possible, while also preventing conditions that could pose risks to the birds or lead to outages for customers."

RIE works in coordination with environmental consultants as well as state and federal wildlife agencies to ensure that all actions comply with required conditions. In many cases, platforms are installed before nesting begins, allowing ospreys to relocate naturally. When a nest does need to be moved, trained crews carefully transfer it to a nearby platform designed to support continued nesting.

"These birds are remarkably resilient," Ducharme added. "In many situations, the ospreys return quickly to the relocated nest, which shows that the approach works for both safety and conservation."

By monitoring known nesting areas and addressing potential hazards early in the season, RIE helps to protect ospreys and their chicks from electrical hazards, reduce the risk of outages caused by nest materials, and minimize emergency work during peak nesting periods.

For a live look at ospreys in their natural habitat, visit the osprey cam hosted by the Conanicut Island Raptor Project and Jamestown Education Foundation. Additional osprey information can be found on the Audubon Society of Rhode Island website.

About Rhode Island Energy

Rhode Island Energy provides essential energy services to over 770,000 customers across Rhode Island through the delivery of electricity and natural gas. Our team of more than 1,300 employees are dedicated to helping Rhode Island customers and communities thrive, while supporting the transition to a cleaner energy future. Rhode Island Energy is part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies addressing energy challenges head-on by building smarter, more resilient, and more dynamic power grids and advancing sustainable energy solutions.

For more information visit www.RIEnergy.com and stay connected on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.