The coastal province of Shandong is constructing an ambitious ultra-high-voltage power grid that will create China's first provincial-level double-ring network structure, ensuring reliable electricity supply while accommodating its growing renewable energy capacity.
A major milestone was reached on August 8 with the commencement of civil construction for the Haiyang West Switching Station, marking the full-scale launch of two critical projects: the Yanwei UHV transmission line and the Zhonghe Xin'an nuclear power transmission project. These initiatives follow earlier groundbreaking ceremonies in May and June for several related infrastructure developments.
A Grid for the Future
When completed, this comprehensive network will connect power sources along the Bohai Sea and Yellow Sea coasts, linking to the Shandong-Hebei UHV ring in the west while integrating nuclear power plants and offshore renewable energy bases in the eastern Jiaodong Peninsula. The project represents a significant advancement in China's power infrastructure capabilities.
UHV (ultra-high voltage) technology has become crucial for long-distance, high-capacity, low-loss power transmission. Since China's first UHV AC project became operational in 2009, the country has developed the world's largest UHV network, comprising 22 AC and 21 DC lines. These projects not only transmit electricity efficiently but also create robust backbone networks that enhance grid stability.
Energy Transition in a Major Province
As one of China's most populous provinces with a substantial economy and significant energy production and consumption, Shandong's energy transformation carries national importance. The province began its UHV construction in 2014, and after a decade of development, now boasts the country's largest provincial AC-DC hybrid grid.
The current expansion aligns with national strategies for green, low-carbon development. The Yanwei region in particular is emerging as a hub for nuclear power and offshore renewable projects. However, this concentration of generation capacity has created transmission bottlenecks, as existing 500 kV lines cannot adequately handle the surplus power from northern Yanwei.
Enhancing Security and Sustainability
Recent large-scale blackouts worldwide have renewed focus on energy security. The new UHV projects address this concern by creating reliable transmission channels for clean energy while optimizing resource allocation across the province. The infrastructure will significantly improve grid stability and support Shandong's transition to a cleaner energy mix.
The Yanwei UHV and Zhonghe Xin'an nuclear transmission projects represent China's first UHV initiatives specifically designed for nuclear power output. Facing tight schedules and technical challenges, State Grid Shandong Electric Power Company has adopted an innovative approach combining technical excellence with cultural inspiration.
A Vision of Harmony and Stability
The company has developed a "Six Harmonies and Calm Seas" cultural concept, drawing from the maritime heritage of the Jiaodong Peninsula. This philosophy symbolizes the project's commitment to reliability ("calm seas") and its role in promoting social prosperity through stable electricity supply.
Implementation involves close collaboration among designers, contractors, equipment manufacturers, and regulators. Advanced UHV technologies ensure efficient transmission, while strict environmental standards minimize ecological impact. Comprehensive quality and safety management systems aim to make these projects national benchmarks for engineering excellence.
When Shandong's UHV double-ring network becomes operational, it will dramatically enhance the province's power transmission capacity while creating new opportunities for clean energy development. This infrastructure project not only supports local economic growth but also provides a model for energy transition at the provincial level across China.
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