Quzhou deploys 'cloud-based safety officer' for small hydropower stations

After weeks of heavy rain in Jiangshan, a county-level city in Quzhou, Zhejiang province, small hydropower stations faced growing operational pressure.

A relay protection team from State Grid Quzhou Power Supply Company visited Hengchang Hydropower Station on April 30.

Station director Xu Changyong thanked the team for its help, saying they not only solved urgent technical problems but also set up long-term safety mechanisms for the station.

The team conducted thorough inspections of key equipment, including generators, transmission lines, and circuit breakers. Using infrared thermal imaging, they found abnormal heating at the C-phase bushing connection of the No 2 main transformer.

Partial discharge testing on the 10-kV switchgear revealed three insulation defects, all of which were fixed immediately. In total, five hazards were identified — four repaired on site, one logged for follow-up.

Given the station's lack of qualified staff, the team designed a combined theoretical and hands-on training program. Using real cases, they taught critical skills such as handling abnormal turbine vibrations and responding to sudden power outages.

The team also set up a dual mechanism combining real‑time digital monitoring with on‑site response. Hydropower stations were designated as priority monitoring units, using digital systems to track power output and grid load in real time. A 24/7 technical support group was formed to assist small hydropower operators at any hour.

The company has now provided specialized services to all 27 hydropower stations in the area, greatly improving both their safe operation and the grid's ability to prevent risks.

Looking ahead, State Grid Quzhou will continue integrating digital tools into production safety operations, refining coordination between remote monitoring and on‑site intervention, and strengthening round‑the‑clock technical and emergency support.

These efforts aim to secure the power grid, ensure reliable electricity supply, and boost local economic and social development.