France prepares for winter gas supply amid rising energy prices

France is preparing for the upcoming winter with sufficient gas stocks to avoid shortages, though rising prices are expected due to geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East. The government aims to reach the 85% storage level required by the European Union by the start of the season.

Energy costs are projected to rise, with the reference gas price increasing by 6.3% on October 1st following a 5.6% increase in August. Total gas prices have already risen approximately 30% since the beginning of the year. To mitigate the impact on low-income households, the government plans to extend the ‘energy check’ (chèque énergie) through 2027, providing aid between 150 and 270 euros for 4.2 million households.