1. The French Gas Market
The French gas market has been open to competition since 2007 for residential customers. This means you can freely choose your gas supplier among numerous providers, not just the historical supplier Engie.
Important: End of Regulated Tariffs
The regulated gas tariff (TRV) ended on June 30, 2023 for residential customers. If you were on a regulated tariff, you should have chosen a market offer. If you didn't, Engie automatically switched you to their "Passerelle" offer.
Key Market Players
- Suppliers: Sell gas to consumers (Engie, TotalEnergies, EDF, etc.)
- GRDF: Manages the distribution network (same for all suppliers)
- CRE: Energy Regulatory Commission, oversees the market
2. Main Gas Providers
Historical Supplier
Engie (formerly GDF Suez)
The historical gas supplier in France. Now offers market-rate contracts only since the end of regulated tariffs.
Alternative Suppliers
TotalEnergies
Major energy company offering competitive gas rates
EDF
Historical electricity supplier also offering gas contracts
Eni
Italian energy giant with French operations
Vattenfall
Swedish company, focuses on renewable energy
Ekwateur
Specializes in green energy, including biogas
3. Types of Gas Offers
Fixed Price Offers
The price per kWh is fixed for 1 to 3 years. You're protected against price increases but won't benefit from price drops.
- ✓ Budget predictability
- ✓ Protection against increases
- ✗ May miss out if prices fall
Indexed Price Offers
The price follows market fluctuations or a reference index (like the former regulated tariff reference).
- ✓ Benefit from price drops
- ✓ Often lower initial prices
- ✗ Prices can increase
Green Gas (Biogas) Offers
Some suppliers offer biogas, produced from organic waste. It's more expensive but has a lower environmental impact.
4. Understanding Gas Prices
Your gas bill consists of several components:
| Component | Description | % of Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Energy price | Price per kWh (varies by supplier) | ~50% |
| Distribution (ATRD) | Network costs (same for all) | ~25% |
| Taxes | TICGN, CTA, VAT | ~25% |
Price Reference Point
Since the end of regulated tariffs, the CRE publishes a monthly "reference price" (Prix Repère de Vente de Gaz Naturel) to help consumers compare offers. In February 2026, this reference is around 0.11-0.13 €/kWh depending on usage.
5. How to Switch Providers
Switching gas providers in France is free, simple, and without interruptionto your gas supply. Here's how:
Gather your information
PCE number (14 digits, on your bill), current consumption
Compare offers
Use the Médiateur de l'énergie comparator or contact suppliers directly
Subscribe online
Takes about 5-10 minutes, your new supplier handles everything
Automatic termination
Your new supplier cancels your old contract, no action needed
Good to Know
There's no commitment period for most gas contracts in France. You can switch providers at any time without penalty. The gas quality and supply remain exactly the same regardless of supplier.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the regulated gas tariff in France?
The regulated gas tariff (TRV) was the price set by public authorities and marketed by Engie. It ended on June 30, 2023, for residential customers who must now choose a market offer.
How do I switch gas providers in France?
Switching is free and takes about 5 minutes online. Your new supplier handles everything, including terminating your old contract. There is no interruption in gas supply.
What is the gas price shield in France?
The gas price shield (bouclier tarifaire gaz) was a government measure limiting price increases. It ended on June 30, 2023, coinciding with the end of regulated tariffs.
Sources
- • CRE (Commission de régulation de l'énergie): cre.fr
- • Médiateur national de l'énergie: energie-info.fr
- • GRDF: grdf.fr
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only. Prices and offers may vary. This content does not constitute financial or energy advice. Always verify current rates directly with suppliers before making decisions.
Last updated: February 10, 2026