Jiyuan, Henan: Integrated Ground and Drone Patrols Safeguard Power Corridors

A drone patrols power lines | Photo by Li Jianguo

On October 23, operation and maintenance personnel of State Grid Jiyuan Power Supply Company adopted an integrated inspection model combining ground patrols and drone aerial inspections. They conducted meticulous inspections of six transmission towers and the surrounding environment along the mountainous section of the 220-kV Huangjing Line. The inspections aimed to accurately assess the operational status of the equipment and ensure the early detection and rectification of potential hazards.

Given the current peak period for various construction projects and frequent farming activities, power corridors face multiple risks such as external damage and wildfire hazards. In response, State Grid Jiyuan Power Supply Company has woven a dense protection network for power corridors to firmly safeguard the lifeline of grid operations.

Based on factors such as the layout of power facilities, the characteristics of autumn operation and maintenance management and the surrounding geographical environment, the company has compiled safety management diagrams for key transmission and distribution lines. These diagrams clarify the daily management priorities and key locations for risk prevention for each line. In addition to manual inspections at designated locations, it comprehensively applies digital and intelligent technologies. By utilizing drone aerial views and visual monitoring devices for power lines, it conducts real-time monitoring of tree growth inside power corridors, the stacking of flammable materials and construction involving machinery around the corridors, promptly handling any identified safety hazards or potential risks.

The company also proactively communicates with construction companies to clarify safe distances, provide technical briefings and jointly optimize construction plans. Meanwhile, it organizes personnel to go into the fields to guide agricultural machinery operators on safe operation and actively share information on policies, regulations and safety practices related to the protection of power facilities, thereby enhancing the safety awareness of agricultural machinery operators.

Additionally, the company has optimized its policies and procedures for risk prevention and hazard management. It has also established mechanisms for information sharing and coordinated emergency response with departments such as forestry and emergency management, safeguarding power corridors and ensuring the stable operation of the power grid. (By Li Jianguo)