Fuel aid increases and TotalEnergies faces shortages in France

In France, fuel costs and availability are major concerns for motorists. A government aid program for high-mileage commuters has increased its payout from 50 to 100 euros. To qualify, employees or self-employed individuals must use their personal thermal or non-rechargeable hybrid vehicles for work. Eligibility is subject to income limits, specifically a 2024 tax reference income not exceeding 16,880 euros per share. Applications must be submitted online before the deadline of September 30, 2026.

Simultaneously, TotalEnergies is experiencing significant supply pressure due to its decision to cap fuel prices amid Middle East tensions. While average prices for SP95-E10, SP98, and diesel have risen across France, TotalEnergies has maintained gasoline at a maximum of 1.99 euros per liter and diesel at 2.25 euros. This price difference has triggered a massive influx of customers, leading to fuel shortages and empty tanks at several stations, including locations in Meudon and Issy-les-Moulineaux.