Comprehensive System-Wide Cathodic Protection of Galvanized T&D Structures and Substation Grounding Assets (C2026-00281)

Anil Chikkam, Peyman Taheri, mehrooz zamanzadeh, Carolyn Tome, Kenji Gailey, John Rettig, Daljit Singh

Corrosion of steel transmission towers and poles presents a significant challenge for electric utilities, contributing to structural degradation, safety risks, and high maintenance costs. A proactive, system-wide cathodic protection (CP) program is essential to mitigate corrosion, extend asset life, and reduce long-term expenditures. This abstract outlines a comprehensive CP strategy that includes corrosion risk assessment, customized CP system design, field implementation, and long-term performance monitoring.
The program begins with site-specific investigations—such as soil resistivity surveys, corrosion potential measurements, and condition assessments of tower footings and substation grounding systems. Based on environmental severity and structure type, an impressed current CP systems may be deployed to protect both substations and the transmission poles between them. Key parameters such as electrical continuity, anode placement, and backfill materials are optimized for maximum effectiveness and service life.
Case histories from major utilities illustrate the success of this approach in protecting galvanized structures in corrosive soils. Remote monitoring and periodic testing are integrated to ensure sustained CP performance. This system-wide methodology enhances the reliability of both transmission and substation underground assets, minimizes unplanned repairs, and supports utility risk management and regulatory compliance.