France temporarily changes diesel requirements due to supply problems

France has temporarily relaxed seasonal diesel requirements due to supply difficulties. Gas stations are allowed to sell so-called summer diesel until November 15, although under normal rules the switch to winter fuel should occur from November 1.

The decision was published in the official journal of France. Authorities cited "extraordinary supply difficulties" due to the situation in the Middle East.

In effect, the government delayed for two weeks the application of one of the seasonal fuel characteristics. Summer diesel has a cold filter plugging point of 0°C, whereas fuel normally sold in France in winter must retain necessary properties down to -15°C.

Other characteristics of diesel remain unchanged. The relaxation concerns its resistance to low temperatures and does not mean the introduction of a different fuel type or changes in quality standards in general.

Distributors taking advantage of the exception must warn customers of possible risks in case of early frost. This is especially important in mountainous regions where temperatures may drop below zero before mid-November. Responsibility for problems related to the use of such fuel lies with the sellers.

The decision marks a new stage in problems in the French fuel market. Previously, Kurs Ukrainy reported that about one in six gas stations in France faced interruptions in the availability of gasoline or diesel.

Meanwhile, the French government insists that there is currently no systemic risk of complete fuel shortage. Economy Minister Roland Lescure said the country's strategic reserves remain full, and authorities have enough visibility regarding supply for the next two months.

Fuel availability problems are accompanied by record prices. As of September 21, the average cost of diesel in France was about €2.41 per liter. The market remains under pressure due to supply disruptions of oil products from the Middle East and general diesel shortage in the global market.

This is not the first such exception in France this year. In March, after supply problems began due to the war with Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, authorities also temporarily allowed the sale of diesel with less stringent cold resistance requirements.

Based on materials from: Le Monde, Légifrance