As of July 1, regulated sales prices for gas (TRV) disappeared. And since that date, the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) publishes its “benchmark” prices every month. These values now serve as a compass for the 12 million households (27.5 million people) dependent on this energy, having replaced Engie’s TRV, which had previously played this role, with the two utilities designed using the least similar methods .
These reference prices are indicative. They make it possible to take into account the costs of suppliers, especially gas supplies on the wholesale market. However, the supplier sets its price list based on the price at which it buys gas. Therefore, the CRE indicator should allow individuals to identify suppliers who are exploiting (by generating very comfortable margins) and those who show the most competitive prices. At least given the current market situation. The energy mediator also integrated all these values into its independent comparator.
In December, a household using gas for cooking and water heating should pay an average of 126.99 euros per megawatt hour (mWh), i.e. 3.5% more than in November. Households located in the best-served geographical areas – close to LNG ports – will benefit from a price of €123.95. On the other hand, individuals heating with gas should pay much less for their megawatt-hour according to the famous reference price (€104.06, or 17.4% less than “small consumers“). Since its establishment, the reference price has only increased. Between July and December, its average level jumped by 21.1% for small customers and by 27% for gas-heated households.
However, all these figures apply to households that have opted for offers with prices that change every month. Households that opted for a fixed price offer – (52% of gas consumers, according to CRE) do not have such a barometer.
Subscribe to our latest news
Key articles accompany you every week personal finance.