French Energy Companies Abandon Gas Stoves: What Solution Have They Found?

French energy companies have begun transitioning from gas stoves to oil-powered alternatives to avoid disruptions in operations should Russian gas supplies be reduced in the future, according to Reuters.

“We might even resort to coal if necessary. The goal is to avoid factory shutdowns in the event of a gas shortage,” said Florent Menegaux, CEO of Michelin, one of the leading tire manufacturers. Oil will still be available as an alternative, he added.

Across Europe, industries are turning to more “polluting” fuels than gas in an effort to mitigate damage, the publication noted. French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire stated that it would be irresponsible not to prepare for a deficit. He considered the halt of gas supplies from Russia to be the most likely scenario.

For the Republic, the issue is not as significant as for many other European countries, given that Russian gas accounts for 17% of its total supply.