Pipeline Transport in France - Market Size, Industry Analysis, Trends and Forecasts (2025-2029)

Pipeline Transport in France industry analysis

The French pipeline transport industry has long played a crucial role in the country's energy infrastructure, enabling efficient and environmentally friendly oil and gas transport. The extensive networks managed by operators such as GRTgaz, Teréga, TRAPIL and SPMR have been instrumental in ensuring energy security, reducing reliance on road and rail transport and connecting key energy centres, ports and storage facilities. In the past, these pipelines have not only supported domestic supply chains, but have also linked France with key European neighbours, promoting cross-border energy flows and strengthening the country's energy security.
Over the five years through 2025, industry revenue is expected to sink at a compound annual rate of 3.2% to €2.8 billion. IBISWorld expects the industry's revenue to drop by 3% in 2025. In recent years, the French pipeline transport industry has changed significantly due to geopolitical dynamics and a strategic shift towards sustainable energy practices. The advent of alternative energy sources and the influence of high prices have led to a noticeable slump in traditional gas consumption. A milder climate, improved energy-saving behaviour among consumers and a rebound in nuclear energy production have also left their imprint. This shift is accompanied by growing investment in hydrogen infrastructure and renewable energy projects, reflecting an adjustment to the evolving energy landscape and a commitment to reducing carbon dependence.
Looking ahead, the French pipeline industry is poised to make a leap forward in its transition towards sustainable energy solutions, with a focus on expanding biomethane production and integrating hydrogen infrastructure. Ambitious government-backed initiatives aim to boost renewable gas consumption and support hydrogen projects at national and European levels. Industry players are adapting by modernising infrastructure, promoting international cooperation and capitalising on partnerships with global energy producers. These strategies underpin France's ambition to take a leading role in the emerging hydrogen economy and to meet future energy demand sustainably. Over the five years through 2030, revenue is projected to swell at a compound annual rate of 0.1% to €2.8 billion.

Trends and Insights

• National monopolies dominate European gas transportation. Enagás (Spain), Fluxys (Belgium), GRTgaz (France) and Snam (Italy) are EU’s four most giant gas transporters (TSOs), owning more than half of the EU’s liquid national gas (LNG) terminals and over 100,000km of pipeline.
• Europe's supply of natural gas slows. Europe's natural gas supply tanked over 2022 and 2023 as Russia restricted its supply into Europe following sanctions, though a limited supply has driven up tariff prices.
• Regional monopolies dominate market share. The complex infrastructure of long-distance pipeline transport dictates that a limited number of pipeline companies is more efficient than a host of companies in charge of the network.