The third main transformer expansion project at the 110-kilovolt Ludong Substation got underway in Shangyu, Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, on Aug 26.

This marks Shaoxing's first independently managed 110 kV infrastructure project, signifying progress in implementing the localized management of infrastructure for the Shaoxing power grid.

The 110-kV Ludong Substation not only supports the public network load for surrounding industrial communities and the Zhejiang Shishi Commerce & Trade City, but also plays a role in the secondary development and infrastructure upgrade of the Shangyu Chengdong Industrial Park.

Currently, the two main transformers at this substation are heavily loaded, necessitating the expansion of a third main transformer.

This expansion project involves the installation of one 50 kV-ampere main transformer, the installation of 1.33 kilometers of 110 kV overhead line and a 0.255-km cable. Additionally, space within the enclosure is reserved for the construction of a fire water pool. The total investment for the project is about 23.83 million yuan ($3.33 million), with completion and operation expected by March 2026. Once operational, it will alleviate the power supply pressure for key projects such as the Cao'e River intelligent equipment and computing center, providing stronger support for regional economic and social development.

"Since the project was initiated in 2023, it has undergone numerous challenges from route selection to implementation," a project manager said. The line crosses the national heritage Zhedong section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, and the Liangzhu Avenue traffic artery, with complex underground pipelines along the route. To ensure smooth operation, the State Grid Shaoxing Power Supply Company collaborated with local planning and regulation departments, organized multiple planning and coordination meetings, and obtained the engineering planning permit and approval from the National Cultural Heritage Administration, providing solid support for accelerated construction in compliance with laws and regulations.

To effectively manage the localized construction of main grid infrastructure projects, the State Grid Shaoxing Power Supply Company implements refined management requirements, appointing key personnel to jointly establish the project team. They have efficiently completed preliminary tasks such as material bidding applications, contract signing, digital archiving and project handover. Additionally, focusing on leadership by Party members, empowering young talents, government-enterprise collaboration and industrial linkage, they have guided local units in developing the 110 kV Transmission and Transformation Project Localized Construction Acceptance Plan, broadening the path for joint construction and operation.

"We have expanded our responsibilities from initial site selection, data collection, legal certification and policy processing to include comprehensive management of safety, quality, progress and information technology in infrastructure, while coordinating with design, construction and supervision teams," the head of the development and construction department of the State Grid Shaoxing Shangyu District Power Supply Company said.

"This localized project will utilize the infrastructure project as a training ground and technical advisor for operation and inspection personnel. By seizing the opportunity of infrastructure localization, we aim to cultivate a professional team with core competitiveness through practical engineering experience. Moving forward, we will focus on building full-chain capabilities in independent design, construction and maintenance, enhancing the localized construction and management capabilities of the company's main grid infrastructure, ultimately achieving the localized construction of the local power grid."

The project is also environmentally friendly. For the first time, the project team adopted an expandable mobile rest station. There are eight 550-watt monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic panels installed on the roof. Paired with a 19.2-kilowatt-hour energy storage device, it can meet continuous 8-hour electricity needs for indoor lighting and air conditioning, achieving self-sufficiency in electricity for the project team. Additionally, the project uses prefabricated components to reduce on-site processing and temporary facility construction, promoting a transition toward intensive and green construction.

In the future, the State Grid Shaoxing Power Supply Company said it will adhere to the "electricity should be ready for development" philosophy, advancing construction with high standards and strict requirements to provide quality power support for the development of regional society and economy. By using this project as a pilot, the company will enhance the independent construction and management capabilities of county-level 110 kV infrastructure projects, striving to create a "Shaoxing model" for demonstrating and leading the localized management of 110 kV main grid infrastructure projects.