Natural Gas: +5.3% Increase in March 2026

Gas price increase of +5.3% from March 1, 2026

From March 1, 2026, the reference price for natural gas (PRM) is increasing by 5.3% on average. This increase mainly affects households using gas for heating, hot water, or cooking. For complete information about the energy sector in France, explore our guides.

Why this increase?

Several factors explain this price evolution:

International market: Wholesale gas prices have increased in recent months, influenced by global supply and demand.

Transport and distribution costs: GRDF network access tariffs (ATRD) are adjusted annually.

Taxes: Gas taxes remain stable but represent a significant share of the bill.

Concrete impact on bills

For an average household consuming 12,000 kWh per year (heating + hot water):

**Before March 2026**: approximately €1,140/year
**After March 2026**: approximately €1,200/year
**Difference**: +€60/year, or €5/month

How to reduce your gas bill?

Optimize your heating

Lower the temperature: Each degree less represents 7% energy savings. 19°C in living rooms and 17°C in bedrooms are the recommended temperatures.

Insulate your home: Good insulation significantly reduces heating needs. Aid programs like MaPrimeRénov' can finance these works. Learn more about electricity prices as an alternative energy source.

Maintain your boiler: Annual maintenance is mandatory and optimizes your equipment's efficiency.

Compare gas offers

The gas market is open to competition. Market offers may be more competitive than the reference price. Points to compare:

kWh price and subscription
Price type (fixed or indexed)
Customer service
Contract length

Consider alternative energy

For a long-term solution, consider:

Heat pump: Replaces the gas boiler with an electric and more efficient system.

Wood heating: Wood pellet stoves or boilers are ecological and economical alternatives.

Hybrid solutions: Combine heat pump and gas for optimal comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does this increase take effect?

The increase takes effect on March 1, 2026, for all consumers on the gas reference price (PRM).

Does the increase affect all consumers?

Consumers with fixed-price market offers are not affected until their contract renewal.

How can I check if my offer is competitive?

Compare your current price per kWh with the reference price published by the CRE. Several free comparators are available online.

Is it worth switching to electricity?

It depends on your situation. A heat pump can be economical in the long term but requires an initial investment. Aid programs exist to facilitate this transition.

What is the outlook for the coming months?

Gas prices remain linked to international markets. Experts anticipate relative stability, but geopolitical context can influence prices.

Aid for low-income households

If you're struggling to pay your energy bills, solutions exist:

Energy voucher: This aid helps pay bills or energy renovation works. Read more about the energy check amounts in 2026.

Social tariffs: Some suppliers offer rates adapted to modest incomes.

FSL (Solidarity Housing Fund): Helps pay overdue bills in case of difficulties.

Sources and References

The information provided in this article is for guidance only and does not constitute personalized advice. We recommend consulting a professional for any major decision regarding your heating system.