Hubei’s First Ultra-High Voltage Smart Substation Revolutionizes Power Supply

The 500 kV Anfu substation, located in Zhijiang, Hubei, has made history as the province’s first “air-to-ground inspection + indoor and outdoor collaboration” pilot substation. This innovative achievement is the latest milestone in State Grid Hubei Electric Power’s pursuit of intelligent inspection scenarios.

With the simple click of a button, the substation’s operation and maintenance personnel can initiate a comprehensive inspection process. The rail robot in the protection hut springs into action, inspecting equipment in the panel cabinet, while the four-legged robot dog ventures out to examine the surroundings. Meanwhile, a drone nest opens, releasing two drones that slowly take to the skies. Over 160 cameras throughout the station come online, monitoring the operating status of large outdoor equipment.

The 500 kV Anfu substation spans an impressive 143 mu and plays a vital role in powering the 100 billion yuan industry and transportation hub in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River. With 18,000 inspection points for various equipment, the substation’s intelligent inspection system has significantly reduced the time required to complete inspections and generate reports – from 48 hours to just 3 hours. This represents a remarkable 93% increase in daily inspection efficiency.

“The mature application of intelligent systems has paved the way for unmanned operation,” notes Yang Zhiqiang, stationmaster of Anfu Substation. The province is currently undergoing digital construction of substations at 110 kV and above, with plans to transfer 600 substations to intelligent inspections this year.