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The consumption of natural gas monitored on GRTgaz’s network during the 1st half of 2010 amounted to 284 TWh (25,3 Gm3), marking a 11,3 % increase compared to the 1st half of 2009. This positive evolution is linked to a recovery of industrial consumptions, and also to cooler temperatures recorded during the second quarter of 2010 (14,4°C on average versus 15,5°C over the same period in 2009).

At the half-year stage, the consumption of industrial customers directly connected to GRTgaz’s network (870 facilities all in all) amounts to 89,8 TWh, an increase of 21,7% versus the first half of 2009. Centralized electricity generation gives a significant contribution to this growth. The use of natural gas for electricity generation represents about 40% of generation in French fossil-fired power plants, constantly rising with the gradual starting of new combined-cycle power plants. Ten of these facilities will be in service by the end of 2010 for a total amount of 4800 MW electric generation capacity, twice more than 12 months ago.

Excluding electricity generation, the half-yearly gas consumption of GRTgaz’s other direct customers has increased by 12,6% compared to the 1st half of 2009, without recovering its 2008 level (-4,2% compared to 2008). During the same time, deliveries to the distribution networks amounts to 194 TWh, 7.2% more than in 2009.

Abundant and competitive, natural gas is an energy which is adapted to the growing flexibility demand, both for domestic and industrial purposes. Natural gas can be transported and stored easily, thus guaranteeing our security of supply. Its low carbon footprint makes it a major player in the implementation of the Energy-Climate policy.

Press contact :

Christophe FEUILLET
tel : +33 (1)1 47 54 23 68
christophe.feuillet@grtgaz.com