The Top 5 Benefits of TEGs for Cathode Protection

Why cathode protection matters

Corrosion is a constant threat to buried pipelines, causing metal loss, leaks, and even catastrophic failures. As engineers and technicians, we know that impressed cathode protection (CP) is the industry-standard method for preventing corrosion and extending pipeline life of larger pipelines. But not all CP power solutions are created equal. 

Five reasons to choose TEGs for pipeline cathode protection

When it comes to off-grid or remote applications, thermoelectric generators (TEGs) stand out for their reliability, simplicity, and suitability for cathode protection for pipelines. There are five key reasons why they perform so well in the field.

1. TEGs deliver direct DC power for CP

TEGs generate native DC output, which is exactly what impressed current CP systems require. Unlike AC generators or grid connections that need rectifiers to convert AC to DC, TEGs eliminate this extra step. This direct DC output means fewer components, and lower risk of failure. For you, that translates to easier installation and maintenance, and for your pipeline, it means consistent, uninterrupted protection at a lower installed cost.

2. TEGs simplify installation and reduce total system costs

TEGs are designed for straightforward deployment in the field. You don’t need a rectifier or a battery bank - just connect the TEG to your groundbed , and you’re set. This simplicity reduces the total installed cost, both in terms of equipment and labor. In remote areas where grid access is expensive or unreliable, TEGs offer a cost-effective alternative. For example, a pipeline operator in northern Alberta replaced a failing solar-battery CP system with a single TEG, cutting installation time in half and eliminating ongoing battery replacements.

3. TEGs ensure long-term reliability in harsh environments

Pipelines often run through regions with extreme weather, from arid deserts to freezing tundra. TEGs have a proven track record in all these environments, delivering reliable power for decades with minimal maintenance. Their solid-state design means there are no moving parts to wear out, and their performance isn’t affected by temperature swings or lack of sunlight. TEGs have been used successfully in remote pipeline CP applications worldwide, providing peace of mind for operators who can’t afford downtime.

4. Adapt easily to varying power requirements

Every CP application is unique, with different current and voltage needs based on soil conditions, pipeline length, age of the system and regulatory requirements. TEGs come in a range of sizes—from 8to 500 watts—and can be combined in multi-TEG panels for higher loads. This modularity lets you tailor the solution to your site’s exact needs. For example, If your ground bed only requires 2 amps, 4.6 ohms with 9 V, then we would recommend a P-5100 12 V TEG for 100 W and avoid the costly oversizing that often happens with AC-powered systems. And if your requirements change, adding another TEG is straightforward.

5. Minimize maintenance and maximize uptime

TEGs are built for unattended operation. With no batteries to replace and no rectifiers to service, maintenance is minimal. Seasonal adjustments can be made easily via the CP panel, and the system’s simplicity means fewer points of failure. This is especially valuable for pipelines in remote or hazardous locations, where site visits are costly and safety is paramount. One operator shared that after switching to TEGs, annual maintenance trips dropped from four to one, freeing up resources for other critical tasks.

Choose TEGs for reliable, cost-effective cathode protection

TEGs offer a direct, reliable, and low-maintenance solution for cathode protection for pipelines, especially in off-grid or remote locations. By delivering native DC power, simplifying installation, and reducing ongoing maintenance, TEGs help you protect critical infrastructure while keeping costs in check. If you’re looking to improve your pipeline’s CP system, contact us to help size up your requirements or learn more about our TEG solutions for cathode protection at https://www.globalte.com/power/cathodic-protection.