Electricity bills are expected to rise again due to a 10% increase in the transmission tariff (TURPE) proposed by the Commission de régulation de l’énergie (CRE). This increase, effective by August 2025, may occur even sooner in February. Factors contributing to the rise include growing capital expenditures and network modernization. For average consumers, this could translate to an annual increase of approximately thirty to forty euros, depending on their energy plan. Public consultation is open until November 22.
Upcoming Increases in Electricity Bills Due to Transmission Tariff Adjustments
Anticipate rising electricity costs in the near future. The increase is primarily associated with the transmission tariff responsible for maintaining electrical networks and compensating operators. The public transmission tariff, known as the Tarif d’utilisation du réseau public d’électricité (TURPE), may see a 10% hike from now until August 2025, potentially starting as soon as February. Here’s what you need to know.
Could electricity prices be set for another spike? While nothing is confirmed, a recent public consultation launched by the energy regulation authority suggests that as soon as February, bills could go up again. Following a previous rise in the TICFE imposed by the government, the Commission de régulation de l’énergie (CRE) is now discussing the rise in the Tariiff d’acheminement, or TURPE.
According to the CRE, “a 10% increase in TURPE is anticipated by 2025, followed by three years of adjustments in line with inflation,” which would see the tariff increase by 1.8% in 2026, 2027, and 2028. This adjustment is intended to equip network operators to effectively fulfill their responsibilities.
The rationale for this increase includes substantial growth in anticipated capital expenses, a rise in connections, advancements in offshore wind energy, climate adaptation efforts, and the modernization of outdated networks, as outlined by the energy regulator in its consultation.
Impact on Your Annual Electricity Expenses
It’s worth noting that the transmission tariff previously contributed to a 12% surge in gas bills last July. For electricity, the TURPE constitutes approximately 20% to 30% of the total bill, meaning a 10% increase could translate to a 3% overall rise in electricity expenses starting next August, assuming the most significant projections.
For instance, a household in Rennes consuming 4,500 kWh annually with a 6 KVa meter could see an annual increase of about thirty euros, based on the lowest plan listed by the Médiateur de l’énergie comparator. If opting for the regulated sales tariff projected at 1,322 euros annually, this could lead to an additional 40 euros per year.
Potential Price Adjustments as Early as February
Notably, this increase might occur sooner than anticipated. The CRE is evaluating the possibility of advancing the tariff adjustments for 2025 to February 2025. With wholesale electricity prices significantly decreasing compared to 2024, consumers on regulated sales tariffs may notice a decrease in their electricity rates starting February 1, 2025. By moving the anticipated changes from August 2025 to February 2025, it could prevent fluctuating pricing within a six-month period.
Consumers who have selected market offers not tied to the regulated tariff will likely face price increases starting in February. Conversely, those who chose the regulated tariff may experience the hike integrated into the forthcoming reduction. This scenario applies not only to the latest TURPE increase that was deferred last August but also to the excise tax increase proposed in the 2025 budget. It remains uncertain if the regulated tariff will still decrease by 9%, should that route be taken.
For those wishing to voice their opinions on this matter, a public consultation is open until November 22.