To confront the surge in fuel prices sparked by global tensions, France has decided to implement measures. Here is the aid available to French households.
Prices on the rise and a looming shortage?
The situation in France around fuel prices remains just as delicate. It is getting worse week after week. Indeed, official data now show a liter of diesel exceeding €2.40 on average. This is simply its historical high. At the same time, the 2022 peak has been surpassed for the past 10 days by SP95-E10, the most sold fuel in France. It now costs €2.17 on average.
This rise is the direct consequence of the war in Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Moreover, the attacks in Saudi Arabia, but also the blockades of oil depots in the Mediterranean, have fueled this rise.
But that’s not all. In addition to the price surge, motorists are facing a beginning shortage in some parts of the country. The Minister of Economy, Roland Lescure, states that “17% of gas stations were short of at least one fuel.” In the face of this grim picture, the government has taken measures.
The extension of aid for heavy users announced!
The press conference began with Roland Lescure. The economy minister acknowledged the delicate situation in France: “the situation is very tough for our fellow citizens, especially for the poorest. We are presenting today a broader and amplified response.”
There will therefore be no generalized aid program. The government confirmed that it is better to target certain categories in order to “preserve public finances.” A slight change, nevertheless, the targeted aid will be broadened and amplified for motorists in greatest need.
Thus Maud Bregeon, the government spokesperson and Minister for Energy, clarified that aid for heavy users would be renewed and expanded. Now, 5.5 million French people are eligible, up from 3 million previously. The aid will be €100 for three months, i.e. “the equivalent of about €0.40 per liter of fuel for three months on average.” Households earning up to €2,035 net per month will be able to apply. To do so, they must go through the dedicated platform. People who have already received this help in the past will not have to take any further steps.
Also, the government unveiled its strategy “Zero Savings”, in the 2027 budget. In case of a surplus of fuel receipts, “it will then be automatically redistributed to the French as additional aid.”
Roland Lescure also stressed the importance of switching to electric. He confirmed that more than 34,000 applications had been filed under the third edition of the social leasing program.
