* Beyond physical connectivity, the 500-kV cross-border power link project has strengthened coordination in power dispatch, standards and management, expanded training and knowledge exchange, laying a foundation for long-term cooperation.

* "The project will effectively boost the economic and social development of both countries, accelerate the green and low-carbon energy transition, and bring the benefits of modern power development to the peoples of China and Laos," said Meng, chairman of China Southern Power Grid.

KUNMING/VIENTIANE, April 21 (Xinhua) -- China's first 500-kV cross-border alternating-current power link went into operation Monday, marking a new step in energy cooperation between China and Laos.

The project, the largest and highest-voltage power connection between the two countries, triples cross-border transmission capacity from 50 megawatts to 150 megawatts. It is expected to transmit 3 billion kWh of clean electricity annually, 30 times the capacity of previous lines.

The project not only serves as a tangible connection of infrastructure, but also strengthens the bond between the two peoples, and supports the optimized allocation of clean energy between the two countries.

GREEN, SMART CORRIDOR

Construction began on Feb. 26, 2025. The 177.5-km line includes a 145-km section in China built by China Southern Power Grid (CSG) and a 32.5-km section in Laos constructed by Electricite du Laos Transmission Company Limited (EDL-T).

"Nearly 1,200 Chinese and Lao constructors from 70 participating units completed the project in over 400 days of transnational collaborative work, overcoming challenges such as tight construction schedules and complex grid connection technologies," said Meng Zhenping, chairman of the CSG.

Lin Rui, chairman of the EDL-T, said the project is like a "power highway," effectively enhancing the power exchange capacity between China and Laos and the power supply capacity in northern Laos.

The Chinese section of the project runs through Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve and Asian elephant habitats, requiring strict environmental protection measures. The route was optimized in the design stage to avoid protected areas and residential areas.

An Asian elephant early-warning system was deployed along the line so as to help minimalize impact on local elepant population and ensure the safety of the construction work.

In one instance, drones detected a herd approaching, prompting operators to raise flight altitude and slow transport to allow the animals to pass safely.

Smart technologies were also used, including digital monitoring across the line and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered robots and robotic dogs for inspections.

"The robot dog is equipped with an AI platform, which can automatically identify equipment status and perform infrared temperature measurement, with data transmitted in real time," said Yang Yao, a duty officer of China Southern Power Grid Yunnan Power Grid (CSG-YNPG).

Huang Weijie, deputy general manager of the CSG-YNPG, said the project opens a channel for power connectivity and clean energy mutual assistance in the Lancang-Mekong region, setting a benchmark for regional green infrastructure.

PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE BOND

Beyond physical connectivity, the project has strengthened coordination in power dispatch, standards and management, expanded training and knowledge exchange, laying a foundation for long-term cooperation.

The CSG is also promoting cross-border participation in its regional electricity market to support regular clean energy trading, said Zhang Shaohui of the company's Lancang-Mekong unit.

More than 500 Lao workers who took part in the project attended multiple training sessions, including bilingual safety and technical programs.

A Chinese-Lao bilingual technical dictionary covering 4,900 terms was compiled to support communication among engineers.

"Previously, I knew nothing about the operation and maintenance of high-voltage power grids. Now, I can independently complete the equipment inspection tasks," said Bounmy Songsavat, a 28-year-old Lao technician trained under the program.

The project also brings tangible livelihood benefits to local communities in Laos, including building a primary school and five bilingual reading rooms, launching the country's first sign-language audiovisual program, and supporting local industry development and infrastructure improvement.

Since 2022, China and Laos have implemented a power-sharing mechanism, with more than 1.6 billion kWh of two-way electricity exchange recorded by the end of 2025. The new link is expected to further improve Laos' ability to balance supply during peak and off-peak periods.

Lao Minister of Industry and Commerce Malaithong Kommasith said the project will become a key artery in the country's power sector once operational. He noted that it will help ease domestic transmission constraints and support the development of renewable energy in northern Laos.

"The project will effectively boost the economic and social development of both countries, accelerate the green and low-carbon energy transition, and bring the benefits of modern power development to the peoples of China and Laos," said Meng, chairman of the CSG.  ■