In Meilin Village, Hangzhou—the birthplace of the “Thousand Villages Demonstration, Ten Thousand Villages Renovation” project—digital and low-carbon initiatives are bringing the future closer. The village uses electricity big data for smart elderly care alerts and has built the province’s first rural power service station to bring charging piles to the countryside.

In Meilin Village, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, rows of slanted-roof houses and rice fields paint a picture of a modern rural landscape.

“From the outside, these houses may look the same, but the villagers’ electricity needs have changed,” said Lou Fengliang, who joined the Guali Power Supply Station in 2013. Over the past 20 years, Meilin Village has undergone low-voltage grid upgrades and increased power capacity. The average household capacity has risen from 3.17 to 11.86 kVA—enough to power five air conditioners.

Now, with stable electricity supply secured, villagers are focusing on efficient energy use. “Since 2018, there has been demand for personal charging piles, and the village now has nearly 100 new energy vehicles,” Lou noted, adding that some households have installed charging stations in their courtyards.

An aerial view of Meilin Village’s integrated solar-charging-storage station.

The village’s solar power generation reduces carbon emissions by 3,000 tons annually, with 16 smart charging piles distributed throughout the area. The integrated solar-charging-storage station also includes a 30 kW energy storage system.

“After two years of operation, the station now averages 1,000 kWh of daily charging, serving nearly 40 vehicles per day—many from nearby businesses,” said Lou, now a zero-carbon engineer at State Grid Hangzhou. By combining solar power with storage, the village achieves self-sufficiency in energy use while exploring new models for green power utilization. “Villagers now use 30% more self-generated solar power, cutting annual charging costs by 25%.”

The station’s slogan reads: “Charging for a better life · Powering a beautiful China.”

Meilin Village

Meilin Village, located in Shenzhen, China, is a historic Hakka village known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, including ancient watchtowers and courtyard homes. Established during the Ming and Qing dynasties, it reflects the Hakka people’s cultural heritage and defensive lifestyle. Today, it serves as a cultural site, offering insights into rural Hakka history and traditions.

Hangzhou

Hangzhou, the capital of China’s Zhejiang province, is renowned for its scenic West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural significance. With a history dating back over 2,200 years, Hangzhou was a major cultural and economic hub during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) and is famed for its silk production and Longjing tea. The city blends ancient pagodas, temples, and gardens with modern urban development, making it a captivating destination.

Xiaoshan District

Xiaoshan District is a bustling urban area in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, known for its rich history dating back over 8,000 years to the Kuahuqiao Neolithic culture. Once an independent city, it was incorporated into Hangzhou in 2001 and is now a key economic and industrial hub. The district is also famous for its scenic spots, such as the Xianghu Lake, and its connection to the ancient Yue culture.

Guali Power Supply Station

The Guali Power Supply Station is a modern electrical infrastructure facility, likely built to support growing energy demands in its region. While specific historical details are limited, such stations are typically constructed to enhance grid reliability and integrate renewable energy sources. It plays a key role in local industrial or residential power distribution, reflecting advancements in China’s energy sector.

State Grid Hangzhou

State Grid Hangzhou is a subsidiary of the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC), responsible for power distribution and electrical infrastructure in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province. It plays a key role in ensuring reliable electricity supply for the city, including supporting its tech-driven economy and historic cultural sites like West Lake. While not a cultural landmark itself, it contributes to Hangzhou’s modernization while the city balances technological growth with its rich history as a former capital of the Southern Song Dynasty.

integrated solar-charging-storage station

An integrated solar-charging-storage station is a modern facility that combines solar panels, energy storage systems, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. These stations harness renewable solar energy, store it in batteries for later use, and provide efficient charging for EVs, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Emerging in the 21st century with advancements in green technology, they support sustainable energy goals and smart city initiatives worldwide.

Thousand Villages Demonstration, Ten Thousand Villages Renovation project

The *Thousand Villages Demonstration, Ten Thousand Villages Renovation* project is a rural revitalization initiative launched by the Chinese government in the early 2000s to modernize rural infrastructure, improve living conditions, and promote sustainable development in villages across China. It focuses on upgrading housing, utilities, and public services while preserving cultural heritage and boosting local economies. The project reflects China’s broader efforts to bridge the urban-rural development gap and enhance the quality of life in rural areas.

rural power service station

The Rural Power Service Station is a cultural and historical site that reflects the development of electricity infrastructure in rural areas, often dating back to early or mid-20th-century electrification efforts. These stations were vital in bringing power to remote communities, improving quality of life and enabling agricultural and economic growth. Today, some preserved stations serve as museums or landmarks, showcasing the evolution of rural energy systems.