French Consumers Can Save Up to €130 Annually by Using CRE's New Gas Price Reference

Since the abolition of regulated gas tariffs in France at the end of 2023, the Commission de régulation de l'énergie (CRE) has introduced a new monthly reference price for natural gas designed to help consumers compare offers and potentially reduce their energy bills. This reference price reflects the average cost of supply and delivery but is not a fixed tariff to be paid, instead serving as a benchmark.

The reference price varies depending on consumption profile and geographic tariff zones. For example, in August 2026, an average household consuming approximately 11,510 kWh per year faced a reference price of €1,806. However, market offers as low as €1,672 have been detected, resulting in potential annual savings of around €134 or 7.5%. Despite this, many consumers remain on legacy contracts inherited from the old regulated framework, which may not be cost-effective.

Households looking to optimize their contracts can either choose fixed-price contracts, locking in rates for one to three years, or indexed contracts that fluctuate with market prices. The choice depends on individual risk tolerance. With colder months approaching and demand increasing, it has become more critical for consumers to review and compare their gas contracts regularly to maximize savings and avoid higher costs.

Energy experts emphasize the importance of annual comparisons to secure the best deals without service interruptions, as sticking to outdated contracts might lead to paying above-market prices. This strategic approach could help many households better manage their energy expenditure amid an evolving pricing landscape in France.