Trends in demand for natural gas on GRTgaz's transmission system. GRTgaz assumptions 2009-2018

In addition to the annual prospective study on the development of its network over the next ten years, GRTgaz offers an insight into trends in gas demand (volumes consumed and consumption peaks) in the areas it serves for the period 2009-2018. GRTgaz thus aims to provide a useful and objective source of information on the present and future context of its business. This first edition covers both the short-term situation, marked by the economic crisis that began at the end of 2008, and the major longer-term environmental issues. Gas demand continues to grow in the energy mix for residential, tertiary and industrial uses. Gas consumption will continue to grow, mainly due to the sustained development of gas-fired power generation and the increasing use of refining and large-scale industry. Over the period 2009-2018, an annual growth rate in consumption of 1.7% is envisaged. Today, the specific demand for gas for power generation introduces new approaches to network flexibility, linked to the particular modulation induced by electricity demand. GRTgaz's transmission infrastructures have to adapt to changes in gas demand, and in particular to the evolution of peak consumption which are one of the system's sizing criteria