Comprehensive Drone Defense Case Study: Protecting a 100MW Solar Thermal Power Plant in Gansu

Project Overview: Securing Critical Energy Infrastructure

This case study details the successful implementation of an advanced counter-drone defense system at a major 100MW solar thermal power plant in Gansu Province, China. The project was initiated to address increasing security threats posed by unauthorized drones to critical energy infrastructure. The integrated system ensures 24/7 protection against intrusions, aligns with national security standards, and safeguards the plant’s operational integrity, data security, and physical assets.

The Critical Challenge: Unregulated Drones Threatening Grid Stability

The proliferation of commercial and recreational drones has introduced significant risks to power generation and transmission facilities. Incidents of drones “rogue flying” or “black flying” near sensitive installations can lead to:

• Operational Disruption: Interference with plant control systems and critical operations.

• Physical Damage: Risk of collision with sensitive equipment or structures, causing fires or explosions.

• Data Theft: Potential for espionage and reconnaissance, leading to information leakage.

• Safety Hazards: Threat to personnel safety and public security.

The implementation was driven by the mandatory industry standard 《GA1800.1-2021/1800.6》, issued by Chinese authorities, which explicitly requires power generation enterprises to establish anti-drone defense systems that are automated, non-interfering, and certified.

Deployed Solution: A Multi-Layered, Intelligent Defense System

To meet the stringent requirements, a tailored, multi-technology solution was deployed, featuring three core components working in concert.

1. Core Defensive Technologies

2. System Integration & Operational Excellence

The system was designed and integrated to exceed standard requirements:

• Full Automation: Operates continuously 24/7 without manual intervention, providing constant vigilance.

• Compliance & Certification: All equipment uses licensed frequency bands and power levels, backed by official national radio detection agency reports.

• Zero Interference: Engineered to have no harmful impact on the plant’s own sensitive electronics, communications, or surrounding infrastructure.

• Guaranteed Safety: The deception and mitigation methods pose no risk of collateral damage to the facility or personnel.

Project Results & Strategic Impact

The deployment has transformed the security posture of the Gansu solar thermal power plant.

• Proven Threat Neutralization: The system has successfully detected and mitigated multiple unauthorized drone intrusion attempts, preventing potential operational and physical damage.

• Regulatory Compliance: The plant now fully complies with the national GA1800 standard for anti-terrorism and security in the power industry.

• Operational Resilience: By protecting the timing infrastructure, the solution directly contributes to the stable and reliable operation of the 100MW facility, supporting regional grid security.

• Comprehensive Asset Protection: The plant is shielded from the full spectrum of drone-related risks: data theft, sabotage, accidents, and financial loss.

Industry Relevance: A Blueprint for Power Sector Security

This project serves as a benchmark for critical infrastructure protection worldwide, especially for:

• Solar Power Plants (Photovoltaic and Thermal)

• Wind Farms

• Hydropower Stations

• Nuclear & Thermal Power Facilities

• Transmission Substations and Grid Infrastructure

The integrated defense strategy of detection, deception, and timing protection addresses the unique vulnerabilities of widely distributed and often remote renewable energy assets.

Protect Your Critical Infrastructure Today

Is your power facility prepared for the evolving threat of drones? Our expertise, built over 19 years in radio frequency security, delivers trusted, compliant, and robust defense solutions.

We provide:

• Tailored Risk Assessments & Solutions

• Certified, High-Quality Equipment

• End-to-End Support: Design, Installation, and Lifelong Service