State Grid Weihai powers 'dark factory' revolution

In Weihai, Shandong province, a state-of-the-art "dark factory" is almost entirely automated — and its smooth operation is made possible by the State Grid Weihai Power Supply Company.

The term "dark factory" refers to an advanced manufacturing plant that can run automatically with minimal human presence — even in the dark — thanks to robotics and digital technology.

At Tianrun Industry Technology's intelligent crankshaft production base, U-shaped automated lines and visual robots work with such precision that just 15 employees are needed to oversee a process delivering 40 percent more output than conventional plants.

Employees from State Grid Weihai Power Supply Company visit Tianrun Industry Technology to ensure a stable, efficient power supply for the company. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

At Tianrun Industry Technology's intelligent crankshaft production base, U-shaped automated lines and visual robots work with such precision that just 15 employees are needed to oversee a process delivering 40 percent more output than conventional plants.

Such high-tech manufacturing demands an exceptionally stable and high-quality power supply. To meet this need, the State Grid Weihai Power Supply Company built three new high-voltage substations for the area's smart manufacturing cluster. These substations are linked in a looped network, boosting the region's power supply capacity by 62 percent and ensuring uninterrupted electricity.

The facility requires a nearly flawless 99.99 percent voltage stability rate to operate. To achieve this, the State Grid team installed three independent main power lines and real-time monitoring equipment that constantly checks voltage, current, and other key indicators — pushing voltage stability to 100 percent.

Because the factory operates around the clock, the power company also offers tailored energy management services, such as efficiency reports and guidance on using off-peak electricity prices. Smart scheduling means energy-intensive steps like heat treatment and forging happen when rates are lowest, reducing costs without slowing production.

Employees from State Grid Weihai Power Supply Company carry out line inspections to ensure electrical safety for businesses in the industrial park. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

By combining reliable power delivery, intelligent monitoring, and custom energy solutions, the State Grid Weihai Power Supply Company is helping reshape local manufacturing — proving that even with the lights off, productivity can shine. (Edited by Hu Kaili)