ACM will set rules for transmission of natural gas in Q1 of 2017

In the first quarter of 2017, the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) aims to have established new rules with which it will determine the level of the revenues of the Dutch transmission system operator for natural gas, Gasunie Transport Services (GTS). In a first, the so-called method decision contains a comparison of GTS’ cost efficiency with that of other, comparable European TSOs for natural gas. This requires a thorough analysis. ACM puts accuracy before speed, which is why the rules will be published a few months later than initially planned. 

The revenues of GTS and the tariffs that follow from the rules must be in line with the necessary costs that the company must incur in order to be able to carry out its tasks. In this way, users of natural gas do not pay more or pay less than necessary.

The 2016 tariffs still apply

In the beginning of 2017, the 2016 tariffs will still apply. The new tariffs will apply as soon as the tariff decision has been released. This decision will be based on the method decision, which will thus be released later than planned. Upon the release of the method decision, ACM will also announce when the tariffs will take effect.

Efficient system operation

ACM supports the objective of realizing an affordable, secure, and sustainable supply of energy. It regulates system operators, which enjoy a monopoly position in the transmission and distribution of electricity and natural gas. ACM’s regulatory regime ensures that tariffs are not higher than necessary, and it helps create a healthy investment climate.