Czech GasNet starts construction season, plans 580 key projects and record inspections of strategic gas pipelines

GasNet Group, the largest gas distributor in Czechia, has started this year’s construction season. It traditionally begins in spring, when the heating season has passed its peak. As part of 580 key construction projects, GasNet will focus this year on renovating strategic gas pipelines and local networks, as well as modernising pressure regulating stations. The company is also stepping up in-line inspections of high-pressure gas pipelines on a record scale. In 2026, it will inspect 121 kilometres of pipelines. At the same time, it is continuing to improve the efficiency of its operations and construction. The aim of these measures is to strengthen the long-term reliability of gas supplies and modernise the gas distribution system as Czech energy decarbonises.

“GasNet’s gas infrastructure is the backbone of the domestic energy sector and economy. More than 2.3 million households and businesses across 85% of the Czech Republic rely on it every day. Our absolute priority is therefore the safe and reliable distribution of gas, which requires systematic investment in network renewal and development, as well as digitalisation. Last year, we invested almost CZK 6 billion in modernising gas infrastructure, and this year we plan to make investments of at least a comparable amount. Our subsidiary Gas Distribution, which operates the distribution system in the South Bohemian Region and part of the Vysočina Region, plans to invest a further CZK 500 million. We are taking thorough steps to prepare for changes associated with the decarbonisation of Czech energy, such as district heating plants and large energy sources switching to gas,” says Andrzej Martynek, CEO of GasNet.

GasNet improves construction efficiency and continues to modernise its network

In 2026, GasNet Group is continuing to improve construction efficiency and modernise gas infrastructure across the Czech Republic. “This year, we plan to complete 580 key construction projects, while our subsidiary Gas Distribution will deliver a further 105 investment projects. We are focusing mainly on larger construction projects, which bring greater efficiency and make better use of capacity and resources,” explains Pavel Komsa, Director of Investment and Construction at GasNet Group.

As last year, GasNet aims to modernise 250 kilometres of gas pipelines this year, while its subsidiary Gas Distribution will complete the renewal of a further 36 kilometres of network in its distribution area. Key construction projects for 2026 include the modernisation of high-pressure gas pipelines in the following locations: Řež near Prague, Starý Láz–Hojsova Stráž, Tanvald–Desná, Kosmonosy–Bělá, Jihlava–Bedřichov, Blučina–Židlochovice, Trutnov–Kalná Voda and Strakonice. The aim is to strengthen the long-term safety and reliability of gas distribution in individual regions.

Record scale of strategic gas pipeline inspections

To plan renovations of strategic gas pipelines more precisely, GasNet is increasing the scope of their in-line inspections year on year. It carries these out using so-called intelligent tools—specialised probes that are inserted directly into high-pressure gas pipelines to check the technical condition of the pipes. The company then uses the data collected to better target renovations of individual sections. “While we inspected 46 kilometres of high-pressure gas pipelines using in-line inspections in 2024, the figure was already more than 70 kilometres last year, and this year it will be 121 kilometres. This helps us improve the planning and efficiency of our renovation work,” says Ivo Jirovský, GasNet’s Chief Asset Officer.

Modernisation of 40 pressure regulating stations

Alongside key projects focused on modernising gas pipelines, the company plans to complete the modernisation of 40 pressure regulating stations this year. These ensure that gas is distributed at the required pressures. Major projects include the renovation of the Bartoušov transfer pressure regulating station in the Havlíčkův Brod area, the station in Komárov near Brno and the Štramberk station in the Nový Jičín area. Gas Distribution, a subsidiary, will complete the modernisation of a further nine pressure regulating stations in the South Bohemian Region and part of the Vysočina Region.

Construction with minimal impact on customers

To ensure investment projects stay on schedule and have minimal impact on gas supplies to end users, GasNet uses a wide range of construction technologies, from alternative supply for customers using mobile LNG storage tanks to 3D project modelling and trenchless technologies. To further improve construction efficiency, GasNet is expanding its supplier portfolio and focusing on strengthening digitalisation.