Czech Republic has embarked on a historic modernization of its high-voltage transmission infrastructure—much of which dates back to the 1950s. In December 2024, the European Investment Bank reported a €400 million lend to ČEZ, the largest electricity distributor in the Czech Republic. This investment is aimed to upgrade and expand the electricity-distribution system across the whole country.

A key foundation for this ambitious undertaking is the selection of the right material – especially the corrosion protection coating material. The optimal coating systems is a long-term key which supports the circular economy by reducing the need for frequent maintenance and repainting, aligning with broader environmental goals.

Photo: A freshly refurbished power pylon in Upper Austria in 2025. © KANSAI HELIOS

Successfully in use for over 10 years

In Austria, the transmission system operator APG (Austrian Power Grid) has been relying for more than a decade on a specially tested coating system from KANSAI HELIOS. CEZ is following the Austrian example. ČEPS (Česká přenosová soustava) has approved the REM AQUA PLUS system for the Czech Republic. As part of a rigorous qualification process, ČEPS requested coating samples from all major suppliers. REM AQUA PLUS stood out for its exceptional performance, earning its place among the select few systems authorized for use on the country’s high-voltage pylons. In a broader context, this approval highlights the growing importance of sustainable, water-based coating technologies in modern infrastructure projects across Europe.

Optimized for galvanized components with high resistance to salt exposure.

REM AQUA PLUS offers high resistance to salt exposure. The system is designed for use in salt-intensive environments such as areas near highways (de-icing salt) or coastal regions – specifically on galvanized surfaces. It has been specially developed for coating galvanized steel and provides reliable protection under long-term stress. This makes it an ideal solution for modern infrastructure projects.

A Strategic Fit for the Czech Grid Renovation

As ČEZ and the Czech government are moving forward with the electricity network modernization plans to modernize its electricity network the KANSAI HELIOS protective coating system offers a ready-to-deploy solution for both new pylons and replacement of corroded structures that can no longer be repainted. Its compatibility with multi-layer coating systems and long service life make it a cost-effective choice for large-scale infrastructure projects.