Zhejiang: First Use of Large Drones in Emergency Drills in Western Zhejiang Mountains

On June 26th, a large industrial-grade drone roared into the sky, becoming a key force in combating a simulated forest fire. This marked the first time that the State Grid Hangzhou Power Supply Company utilized a large drone in an emergency drill in the mountainous areas of western Zhejiang.

The drill simulated a sudden mountain fire around the 110 kV Zhenzhu Substation in Chun’an area, which seriously threatened the safety of the power grid. On-site reconnaissance revealed that the fire was located in a mountainous area with the complex terrain, making it difficult for traditional firefighting methods to set up water sources for effective extinguishing in a short time. Faced with this challenge, the command center made a decisive decision—to deploy large drones to carry out bombing and fire extinguishing missions!

Upon receiving the command, the drone operation team responded swiftly. Under clear weather conditions and with a level three wind, the equipment was checked, and the drone took off smoothly. The operators utilized its high-definition camera and thermal imaging device to accurately lock onto the core area of the fire source. After reaching the predetermined position, the drone, following the command, precisely dropped fire extinguishing bombs into the target area. The white extinguishing agent instantly covered the fire point, and the high-temperature zone was quickly suppressed. Meanwhile, ground personnel closely monitored the development of the fire through devices such as deployment balls. Several fire extinguishing bombs accurately hit the target, and the fire was rapidly brought under effective control. The command center then issued orders to cease bombing and for the drone to return.

In addition to forest fires, this exercise also set up scenarios closely related to power grid operations, such as ‘confined space rescue’ and ‘snake bite first aid’. In the multi-scenario, full-chain comprehensive emergency rescue exercise, the participation of drones greatly enhanced the ability to quickly handle emergencies in complex environments, adding a reliable ‘aerial barrier’ to protect the safety of power grid facilities.

Through this exercise to promote prevention, State Grid Hangzhou Power Supply Company has further strengthened the safety defense line of the power grid, laying a more solid technical foundation for ensuring the safe and stable operation of the power grid and meeting the electricity demand of the people during the peak summer period. (By Ren Maopan)