Quzhou, Zhejiang: Intelligent Grid Inspections Fortify Power Defenses to Secure Residents’ Summer Comfort Amid Heatwave

The Quzhou region in Zhejiang Province has been enveloped by prolonged sweltering heat in recent days, with power loads climbing steadily, subjecting the power grid to its annual “heat test.” Facing this grim power supply scenario, State Grid Quzhou Power Supply Company has risen to the challenge, with all personnel remaining on duty. Technological empowerment is leveraged in inspections to strengthen the grid’s operational lifeline and safeguard the bottom line of power supply for people’s livelihoods.

“When it’s this hot and power use hits a peak, we can’t slack off on keeping the power running smoothly,” Liao Pinyang, a team leader at State Grid Quzhou, told his crew. In response to mounting equipment operational stress, the team decisively ramped up inspection efforts, adopting a dual-track model of comprehensive manual inspections and intelligent robotic patrols. A three-dimensional intelligent inspection system covering substations has been established.

Thermal imagers are wielded by inspectors to conduct carpet-like inspections of core equipment—transformers, circuit breakers, disconnectors—within the 110 kV Xindu Substation. No detail is overlooked, from equipment joint temperatures and oil level variations to terminal block wiring and secondary circuit conditions, ensuring potential safety hazards are detected and eliminated promptly. Simultaneously, intelligent inspection robots have been deployed to demonstrate their capabilities. Navigating autonomously along preset tracks, they leverage advanced equipment such as high-definition cameras and infrared temperature measurement modules to accurately capture equipment operating parameters in high-temperature environments. Real-time data is transmitted back to the backend system, enabling around-the-clock, gap-free online monitoring of equipment status.

“Manual checks have got years of on-the-ground experience—they’re good for handling messy, unexpected issues,” noted Mei Haojie, an operation and maintenance specialist. “Robots, though, are fast and precise. They’re perfect for spots humans can’t handle, like super hot areas or tight spaces.” The two inspection methods complement each other, not only significantly enhancing inspection efficiency but also providing clear visibility of equipment operating status. A “double insurance” has been added to the safe and stable operation of the power grid.

Moving forward, weather changes and load trends will continue to be monitored by State Grid Quzhou Power Supply Company. Intelligent inspection strategies will be optimized, and emergency response capabilities will be strengthened, ensuring that residents have access to safe and reliable “cool power” during peak consumption periods. A strong electric power impetus will be injected into the high-quality development of the local economy and society.（By Mei Haojie & Dong Ruiheng）