Table of Contents
Introduction
China’s vast and complex power grid has historically posed significant challenges in maintenance and inspection, especially in remote and hazardous areas. Traditional methods often required extensive manpower, posed safety risks, and were time-consuming. However, recent advancements in robotics and drone technologies are revolutionizing the way China approaches power grid maintenance, setting new standards for efficiency and safety.
The Breakthrough: Integrating Drones and Robots in Power Grid Maintenance
In April 2025, the State Grid Lanzhou Power Supply Company in Gansu Province achieved a significant milestone by deploying a “heavy-lift drone + ground wire repair robot” system to perform live-line repairs on a 220 kV transmission line. This innovative approach involved a heavy-lift drone delivering a repair robot to a working height of 30 meters. The robot autonomously identified and repaired damaged strands, completing tasks in one hour that traditionally took six hours manually.(news.cri.cn)
Similarly, Crownpower, a robotics firm based in Guangdong, has developed robots capable of inspecting and maintaining high-voltage power lines. These robots, equipped with X-ray detection, traverse power cables at 6 meters per minute, identifying potential damage and reducing the risks associated with manual inspections.
Advantages of Robotic Integration
Enhanced Safety
By utilizing drones and robots, maintenance tasks that once required human workers to operate at dangerous heights or in challenging terrains can now be performed remotely. This significantly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.
Increased Efficiency
Automated systems can complete inspections and repairs much faster than traditional methods. For instance, the drone-robot system in Gansu reduced repair time from six hours to just one.
Precision and Reliability
Advanced sensors and AI enable robots to detect faults with high accuracy, ensuring that issues are identified and addressed promptly, thereby maintaining a consistent power supply.
Broader Implications for the Power Industry
The integration of robotics into power grid maintenance signifies a shift towards smarter infrastructure. As technology advances, we can anticipate broader adoption of such systems, leading to more resilient and efficient power networks. This transformation not only enhances operational efficiency but also aligns with global trends towards automation and digitalization in infrastructure management.
Conclusion
China’s adoption of robotics and drone technologies in power grid maintenance represents a significant leap forward in infrastructure management. These innovations not only improve safety and efficiency but also set a precedent for other countries to follow. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more sophisticated solutions that will further revolutionize the industry.
Sources: ECNS.cn, scmp.com, advantech.com, chinadaily.com.cn
