In 2012, within the framework of the effective Program for Implementation of the Environmental Policy, branches of JSC IDGC of the North-West performed the following key activities:

• reconstruction of oil-receiving bowls, oil pipes, devices of emergency oil collectors. The environmental effect — prevention of soil contamination with transformer oil;
• within the framework of technical measures oil switches were replaced and new vacuum switches were installed. Application of vacuum switches instead of oil switches allowed reducing the risk of environment contamination with transformer oil;
• old non-insulated wires were replaced with self-supporting insulated wires;
• development, adjustment and approval of permits and authorizations;
• construction and assembly works for replacement of diesel generators equipped with the catalytic emissions mitigation system.

These measures were aimed at ensuring compliance with the requirements of the environmental legislation, emission quotas, prevention of soil contamination with transformer oil, ensuring environmentally safe waste treatment.

In Arkhenergo branch works under project "Creation of a Complex of Facilities for Prevention of Soil Contamination in the Area of Location of Mezenskaya DPP" were completed and the first stage of project "Operation of a Complex of Facilities for Prevention of Soil Contamination in the Area of Location of Mezenskaya DPP" was implemented.

The branches developed draft feasibility evaluation reports on an estimated size of the sanitary and protection zone (as a part of substation reconstruction works). Favorable expert opinions of the Hygiene and Epidemiology Center were obtained for the above drafts.

The work for development and approval of projects of zones of sanitary protection of drinking water supply source is in progress.

In 2012 analytical monitoring of pollution contents of atmospheric emissions was carried out in branches of JSC IDGC of the North-West in accordance with the approved schedule-plan.

Production subdivisions of branches of JSC IDGC of the North-West annually develop (review) the program for production control of atmospheric emissions, in accordance with which amounts of pollutant emissions in the environment by organized pollution sources are regularly measured.

The terms and conditions of the license agreement for the right to use subsurface resources are complied with to the fullest extent, laboratory tests of well water for quality indicators and component composition (scent, color, рН, chemical elements, etc.) are carried out.

Environment protection measures are mainly focused on collection of waste of 1-4 hazard class and its transfer to specialized companies for utilization.

In Novgorodenergo branch in 2012 measures for protection and efficient use of water resources were taken. The key measures include the replacement of filter media by local sewage disposal plant (LSDP) for rainwater, cleaning of oil catcher, sinkers, wells of storm collections, repair and cleaning of channels of LSDP to the Velgiya river.

These measures allowed to reduce the content of suspended substances and oil products in storm water sewage. Pollutant discharge is carried out on the basis of a permit valid from May 7, 2010 to March 31, 2015.

Measures for decommissioning and utilization of equipment containing PCB were taken.

Modern equipment installed within the framework of modernization of the grids and decommissioning of obsolete equipment allow reducing negative environment impact in transportation and distribution of electric power.

Branches of JSC IDGC of the North-West carry out land improvements on the territories of electric grid bases.

In 2012 Pskovenergo branch carried out the following technical arrangements for protection of the animal world, including birds:

• installation of 666 anti-bird screens.

In order to prevent animal incursions at substations and getting an electrical shock the territories are fenced and working mechanisms are equipped with covers.