The smart grid with opportunities and challenges coexisting
August 29 12:28:02, 2025
As a critical energy infrastructure for the nation, electricity plays a central role in ensuring stability and development. Security systems have long served as a vital support mechanism for maintaining the safe operation of the power industry. Traditionally, security applications in this sector have primarily focused on unattended substations, transmission lines, and production safety, with unattended substations being the main area of deployment. However, with increasing attention from the National Development and Reform Commission on power emergency management and the widespread adoption of video technologies, traditional security solutions are undergoing significant transformation. The rapid advancement of smart grid technology is driving these changes.
What exactly is a smart grid, and how is it developing in China?
A smart grid refers to an intelligent power network that uses information and communication technologies to enable real-time interaction across all stages of the power system—energy resource development, power generation, transmission, distribution, supply, sales, and consumption. This allows for more accurate and efficient power supply, improved energy efficiency, enhanced power security, and reduced electricity costs. China's smart grid research started relatively late compared to other countries, but efforts have been made at both the large-scale grid and medium-to-low voltage levels. While there are still few mature and industrialized results, the progress made in various fields has laid a strong foundation for future smart grid development.
In 2009, State Grid Corporation of China invested 350 billion yuan, focusing on ultra-high-voltage power grids and cross-regional transmission projects. Over the next few years, around 5 to 6 billion yuan were allocated annually, with 60-80% of the budget dedicated to remote control and interactive intelligence. These investments reflect the country’s commitment to building a smarter, more resilient power network.
Despite progress, two major challenges remain in China's power grid construction: first, the rapid economic growth has led to a sharp increase in electricity demand, making it difficult to meet supply needs. Second, China's energy resources are unevenly distributed, and its current grid structure is not robust enough, which hinders economic development. To address these issues, China should draw lessons from European and American experiences and develop practical strategies to build a stronger, smarter grid.
High-definition (HD) technology is playing an increasingly important role in the power industry. Traditional analog cameras often fail to capture clear details, such as facial features during theft incidents. Moreover, dispatch centers require real-time monitoring of substation operations, including the status of instruments and switches. Standard definition (SD) images from analog cameras can't meet these demands. As a result, the adoption of HD monitoring technology is becoming a key trend in power industry surveillance systems.
The benefits of HD technology for power industry customers include:
- **More vivid image details**: HD offers significantly higher resolution than standard definition. For instance, 720p resolution is nine times clearer than CIF, while 1080i/p is twenty times sharper. In the same display environment, HD images appear much more defined and detailed.
- **More realistic color reproduction**: Analog cameras typically use composite video signals, which mix luminance and chrominance, leading to interference and noise. HD technology, by separating these signals, reduces interference and produces more natural, accurate colors. This is especially useful in identifying subtle details like indicator lights or color-coded equipment.
- **Wider field of view**: HD cameras use a 16:9 wide-angle format, offering a broader perspective than traditional analog cameras at the same focal length. This makes them ideal for monitoring large areas and capturing comprehensive views of substation environments.
By integrating HD technology into their monitoring systems, power companies can enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and better respond to potential threats. As the smart grid continues to evolve, high-definition solutions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of power industry surveillance.
Jiangsu XC Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. is a pioneer in the field of industrial segmentation, a comprehensive solution provider that integrates software and hardware development, industrial digital intelligence, and industrial cost reduction and efficiency improvement.Our company's main business includes intelligent tool cabinets, intelligent tool handle management cabinets, intelligent protective equipment management cabinets, intelligent tool management cabinets, intelligent standard parts and consumables management cabinets, intelligent power public goods management cabinets, and so on; Integrators and manufacturers of solutions for the MRO category.
