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Gas distribution in France
GrDF, the Group’s subsidiary which is dedicated to the distribution of natural gas in France, conveys natural gas on behalf of all the suppliers chosen by French consumers over a network which it is in charge of building, maintaining, operating and developing in complete safety.
Open to all users
In 2007, pursuant to the total deregulation of the energy markets, the distribution operator, GrDF, proceeded to make significant changes to its organisation. New units designed to accommodate users of the distribution networks were set up:
- 23 Natural Gas Connection and Advice centres in charge of dealing with requests for connection and access to supplies of natural gas by trade customers (plumbers, engineering consultancies), by suppliers mandated by end-clients and by consumers,
- 78 Routing units in charge of ensuring that all suppliers have access to the network in a transparent and non-discriminatory manner.
One guiding aim: network safety
Come the end of 2007, all known grey cast iron pipes had been replaced, in accordance with the commitments provided to the authorities. 95% of safety call-outs were completed in less than an hour.
An exceptional network
The natural gas distribution network in France which is managed by GrDF is 186,000 km long: it is the longest gas distribution network in Europe.
Distribution networks are sets of infrastructure elements comprising mainly medium or low pressure pipes. These carry natural gas to consumers who are not linked directly to the main transmission network or to a regional transmission network.