The CRE asks GRDF to stop promoting biomethane

France’s Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) has asked GRDF, the natural gas distribution network operator and an Engie subsidiary, to stop communicating about biomethane, even though it had been a central communication theme for the company. The CRE considers that GRDF’s support for biomethane goes beyond the scope of its mission. Biomethane, which is heavily subsidised by the State, accounts for around 3.5% of gas consumption in France. The CRE further considers that communication on biomethane may create confusion among the public and amount to a form of promotion of fossil natural gas. In response, GRDF stressed that the CRE’s request has no legal force.