Staff from the State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Ningbo Zhenhai Electric Power Supply Company visited the Aming Ecological Farm in Jiulong Lake Town, Ningbo City on the afternoon of August 1st to ensure the smooth operation of a newly installed 250 kVA transformer. The upgrade is key to supporting the farm’s expanded operations and guaranteeing a stable power supply.
Aming Ecological Farm, the largest quail farming enterprise in eastern Zhejiang, has faced significant challenges in recent years. Ageing infrastructure, rising labour costs, heightened breeding standards, and increased competition from neighbouring farms put pressure on the business. In response, the farm initiated a comprehensive upgrade in 2023, with substantial support from local policies and investment.
The farm invested over 9 million yuan into modernising its facilities, which included constructing six new breeding sheds and setting up an automated multi-tiered production line. This new system integrates feeding, watering, manure cleaning, and egg collection, streamlining the farming process and enabling significant scaling. As a result, the farm has doubled its quail population from 400,000 to 800,000 birds. Annual sales are expected to soar from 15 million yuan to 30 million yuan, solidifying the farm’s place as a leader in the region.
With these advancements, however, came a growing demand for reliable power. To meet this need, the State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Company stepped in, initiating a phased upgrade of the rural grid to ensure that the farm’s new automated systems would have sufficient power.
The State Grid has formed a strong partnership with the farm, closely monitoring its energy needs and providing 24/7 support. As the farm’s power demands increased, the electric company worked with its owners to shift from a low-voltage to a high-voltage power supply. They also conducted regular inspections of the dedicated transformers, power lines, and backup systems to ensure everything runs smoothly. This proactive approach has been essential in maintaining the farm’s operations as it transitions to full automation.
Speaking about the changes, representatives from the State Grid emphasised their commitment to supporting rural businesses and modernising traditional farming. “We are using our power service capabilities to promote the electrification and automation of farming, which helps increase farmers’ incomes and fosters rural revitalisation,” a spokesperson for the State Grid said.
This collaboration reflects broader efforts to modernise China’s agricultural sector. As more farms turn to automation and improved infrastructure, reliable power becomes a crucial element in ensuring the long-term viability of rural enterprises.
The upgrades at Aming Ecological Farm demonstrate how strategic investment and collaboration can transform local businesses. The success of this project is expected to inspire further modernisation efforts, supporting both the growth of agricultural enterprises and the broader goal of rural revitalisation across the region.
