Fuel reserves to be released

The minister of Energy, Maud Bregeon, explained to the Senate how the government will release 10 million barrels from France's strategic fuel reserves to lower pump prices by 12 to 18 cents. This action is part of a coordinated G7 effort to reduce fuel prices.

Reserve release details

The 10 million barrels will be released gradually from November to January and sold at a price nearly four times lower than the current market rate. A decree from October 24 in the Official Journal outlines the conditions for this sale, ensuring that the savings are fully passed on to consumers.

Supply security maintained

Bregeon assured the Senate that France's fuel reserves remain fully stocked and that the release does not compromise supply security. The amount being released is about 10% of the total strategic reserves, and the government will provide weekly updates on the impact of the release on fuel prices.

Energy price concerns

The release of fuel reserves comes as energy prices rise, with the price of a barrel of Brent crude reaching 115 dollars—the first time since May. This increase is linked to ongoing attacks by the Houthis on Saudi Arabia and concerns about potential military tensions between the United States and Iran.

Aid for large drivers

New applications for aid for large drivers, offering 100 euros for the period of October to December, have opened. The income threshold has been raised to cover 5.5 million people, and total aid committed since the start of the crisis reaches nearly 1.5 billion euros.

Energy check issues

The minister addressed concerns about the energy check, a state aid for low-income households. The number of beneficiaries has decreased, even though more eligible households were identified in 2025. The check's value, initially 150 euros, has lost purchasing power due to inflation, and no increase has been planned.

Nuclear program tensions

Discussions also focused on the disagreement between the French government and the European Commission over the financing of the French nuclear revival program. Brussels has requested more interconnections with neighboring countries or guarantees that some of EDF's electricity will be sold abroad, but the government has set firm limits against these demands.

Natural gas prices rise

The price of European natural gas has increased to more than 90 euros per megawatt-hour, its highest level since December 2022. As a result, the reference selling price for gas will rise by 6.6% for the six million households affected, starting November 1.