10-year development statement on GRTgaz's transmission system 2009-2018

GRTgaz is a European leader in natural gas transmission, a world expert in gas transmission networks and systems, and an operator firmly committed to the energy transition. It owns and operates the gas transmission network throughout most of France and it manages the transmission network in Germany, thereby helping to ensure correct operation of the French and European gas market. It contributes to the energy security of regional supply systems and performs a public service mission to ensure the continuity of consumer supply. The fourth Development Statement, covering the development of GRTgaz's transmission system over the period 2009-2018, reflects the sustained demand for new transmission capacity. If the connection projects (LNG terminals, combined-cycle gas turbine power stations, etc.) are confirmed, GRTgaz will pursue the expansion of its transmission infrastructures (1,600 km of additional pipelines, upgrading of the compressor fleet) and, in the long run, increase its entry and exit capacity by more than 65%. These investments will contribute to the opening up of the natural gas market, encouraged by the European Commission and already reinforced by the undertakings made to facilitate access to the French natural gas market. By providing tailored solutions and commercial tools, GRTgaz is making natural gas trading more fluid and enabling suppliers to improve their supplies for the benefit of consumers. Over the first six months of 2009, the number of wholesale market transactions in GRTgaz's North zone grew by more than 40% and the volumes traded by 70%, compared with the levels recorded over the same period in 2008. Since 2008, GRTgaz has seen a rise in demand for additional capacity on its transmission system, despite the slowdown in economic activity. The likelihood of projects being implemented in GRTgaz's North zone rose in 2009. A consultation of market players at the end of 2008 revealed very significant need for the development of interconnection capacity between France and Belgium. GRTgaz's South zone is experiencing a similar trend, also stimulated by plans for new LNG terminals and for the reinforcement of the interconnection between France and Spain. At the time of the publication of the Multi-Year Indicative Plan (PIP) for the gas sector in 2009, the Government emphasised the need to increase investment in the major national infrastructures, in particular to enhance safety and fluidity in the main gas transmission pipeline network. Located at the hub of Europe's Northern and Southern markets and of the new flows of liquefied natural gas (LNG), France is well positioned to contribute effectively to the strengthening of security of supply encouraged by the European institutions. The Development Statement (2009-2018) is a framework document. It is the outcome of a continuous dialogue with the market players and institutional representatives, and seeks to clarify the issues around these developments. Published annually by GRTgaz in the last four years on a voluntary basis, it anticipates the 10-year development plans that transmission operators will in the future be required to produce in application of the 3. European Directive