THE July 1consumers of natural gas in France will see their bill increase by 11.7%. This increase was announced by the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) THE June 10causing concern among gas users.
Increase in natural gas prices
The average reference price will reach €129.2 including tax per megawatt hour (MWh)which will correspond to an annual invoice of 1,184 euros for an average consumer. This increase, although significant, leaves the selling price lower by 3.5% compared to the start of the year. In January, the same offer would have cost 1,227 euros per year.
Factors of the increase
This change in prices is mainly due to two factors:
- A new delivery rate natural gas.
- An increase in natural gas price in wholesale markets.
Energy conservation efforts having reduced gas consumption in France, fixed transport costs are now spread over lower consumption, which has led to this increase.
Impact on consumers
Energy suppliers, although free to set the prices of their offers, will probably pass on this increase to most contracts, in particular those indexed to the benchmark price published each month by the CRE. As a result, subscribers could see their bills increase automatically, without prior notification. On the other hand, fixed price offers should not be affected by this increase.
Reactions and perspectives
For consumers like Yvonne Poidevin, retiree, this increase is difficult to accept, especially after a previous increase at the start of the year. She emphasizes that this will “weigh very heavy on the costs of individuals”.
In conclusion, the increase in gas prices in July 1 reflects fluctuations in energy markets and tariff adjustments in distribution networks. Consumers should expect higher bills, although some deals may remain immune to the increase.
