Precision protection

On high-altitude lines above 3,000 meters in Gansu's Gannan Tibetan autonomous prefecture, dual-radar ultrasonic devices are deployed to detect approaching birds within a 100-meter range. The system emits variable-frequency acoustic signals and soft light to gently guide birds away without harm.

A digital monitoring platform known as the "Silverline Sentinel" also provides continuous oversight of both grid conditions and bird activity.

Alongside the "Silverline Sentinel" platform, an upgraded monitoring system known as the "Silverline Scout" has further enhanced real-time ecological protection capabilities, State Grid said.

The system uses artificial intelligence, infrared sensing and nighttime projection technologies, enabling 24-hour continuous monitoring of both transmission line operations and bird activity. Its built-in algorithms can identify more than 200 common bird species, analyze nesting locations and behavioral patterns in real time, and issue early warnings of potential risks.

State Grid said that by combining visual, thermal and acoustic data streams, the system allows operators to detect approaching birds and infrastructure anomalies with greater precision, strengthening preventive maintenance across high-risk corridors.

"Previously, we relied on manual patrols and could only inspect all lines once a month," said a technician in Gannan. "Now we can monitor in real time and respond immediately."

Since deployment, maintenance efficiency across Gansu's grid has tripled, while ecological datasets collected by the system have become valuable inputs for migratory bird research.

In sensitive forested areas such as Ziwuling, patrol teams have adjusted cable routes to avoid nesting zones, while drones equipped with infrared imaging conduct inspections with minimal disturbance.

Across Gansu, more than 20,000 sets of bird-friendly devices — including flexible anti-perching structures, insulating covers and epoxy barriers — have been installed. Unlike earlier rigid designs, these prevent contact without harming birds and also reduce flashover risks caused by droppings.

In Zhangye's Heihe Wetland corridor, these combined measures have reduced bird-related outages by 13 percent, while enabling safer movement through previously high-risk zones.