Electricity Prices 2026: VNU, TURPE, Taxes - Complete Guide
Discover how electricity prices in France are formed in 2026: VNU reference price, TURPE network tariff, and all applicable taxes.
How is the electricity price composed in France?
The electricity price in France in 2026 is composed of three main elements: the energy supply itself (around 35-40% of the bill), the network tariffs called TURPE (around 30%), and taxes and contributions (around 25-30%). For more information about the energy market in France, explore our detailed guides.
Since February 1, 2025, the regulated electricity tariff (TRVE) has been replaced by the Reference Normalized Price (VNU), which serves as a benchmark for the entire market.
The Reference Normalized Price (VNU)
The VNU is the reference price published by the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE). It replaces the old regulated tariff and is composed of:
The energy supply share: This corresponds to the actual cost of electricity, including purchase on wholesale markets, supply costs, and supplier margin.
The TURPE share: The Public Electricity Transmission Network Use Tariff covers infrastructure management costs by Enedis and RTE.
Taxes and contributions: These include the CSPE (Contribution to the Public Electricity Service), the CTA (Tariff Contribution), and VAT.
What are the rates in February 2026?
The latest VNU rates applicable from February 2026 are as follows:
Base Option (single price 24/7)
- Subscription 6 kVA: €12.45/month
- kWh price: €0.2516
Peak/Off-Peak Option
- Subscription 6 kVA: €13.18/month
- Peak hour price: €0.2714/kWh
- Off-peak hour price: €0.2068/kWh
Tempo Option
- Subscription 9 kVA: €14.82/month
- Variable rates depending on the day (blue, white, red)
What taxes apply to electricity?
Several taxes are added to the electricity price:
TICFE (ex-CSPE): The domestic tax on final electricity consumption has been increased to €32.44/MWh since February 2024, returning to pre-crisis level.
CTA: The tariff contribution (around 27.04% of the fixed TURPE portion) finances electricity worker retirement.
VAT: 5.5% on the subscription, 20% on consumption and other taxes.
How to optimize your electricity bill?
Here are some concrete tips for reducing your energy expenses in 2026:
Choose the right power level: A power level that's too high means paying for an unnecessary subscription. 6 kVA is sufficient for most apartments.
Opt for Peak/Off-Peak if you're flexible: If you can shift at least 30% of your consumption to off-peak hours, this option can generate significant savings.
Compare market offers: Alternative suppliers may offer more competitive prices than the VNU for certain profiles.
Invest in home insulation: Energy renovation grants (MaPrimeRénov') can significantly reduce your heating consumption. You might also want to learn about understanding your electricity bill or consider changing electricity supplier for better rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between VNU and regulated tariff?
The VNU replaced the regulated tariff in February 2025. It is a reference price published by the CRE that serves as a benchmark for the market, but consumers can choose market offers that differ from this reference.
Are electricity prices going to increase in 2026?
The VNU is revised every semester in February and August. The CRE takes into account wholesale market prices, network costs, and taxes. Evolution depends on these factors.
How do I know my consumption in kWh?
Your Linky meter allows you to track your consumption in real-time via the Enedis application. Your bills also show your consumption history.
Is it worth changing suppliers?
It depends on your profile and current offer. Comparison is free and can reveal significant savings, especially with market offers. Learn more about regulated tariff vs market offers.
What is the Tempo option?
Tempo is a dynamic option offering 6 price levels depending on the day (blue, white, red) and time slot (peak/off-peak). It requires flexibility but can generate up to 20% savings.
Related Articles
- How to Reduce Your Electricity Bill
- Understanding Your Electricity Bill
- Regulated Tariff vs Market Offer
- How to Reduce Your Bank Fees
Sources and References
- CRE - Energy Regulatory Commission
- Service-Public.fr - Electricity
- Enedis - Distribution Network Manager
The information provided in this article is for guidance only and does not constitute personalized advice. We recommend consulting a professional for any important energy-related decision.
CheckEverything.fr Editorial Team
Writing and fact-checking
Our editorial team brings together writers specialized in energy, telecommunications, insurance and banking in France. Every article is verified against official French sources (CRE, ARCEP, ACPR, service-public.fr) before publication.
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The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized advice. We recommend consulting a professional for any important decision.
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