Regulation 2017/460 - Network code on harmonised transmission tariff structures for gas - Main contents

EN

Official Journal of the European Union

L 72/29

In line with Regulation (EC) No 715/2009, it is necessary to establish a network code on harmonised transmission tariff structures for gas, and set out the Union-wide rules which have the objectives of contributing to market integration, enhancing security of supply and promoting the interconnection between gas networks.

A crucial step in reaching these objectives is to increase the transparency of transmission tariff structures and procedures towards setting them. Therefore, it is necessary to set out the requirements for publishing the information related to the determination of the revenues of transmission system operators and to the derivation of different transmission and non-transmission tariffs. These requirements should enable network users to understand better the tariffs set for both transmission services and non-transmission services, as well as how such tariffs have changed, are set and may change. Additionally, network users should be able to understand the costs underlying transmission tariffs and to forecast transmission tariffs to a reasonable extent. The transparency requirements set out in this Regulation further harmonise the rule laid down in point 3.1.2(a) of Annex I to Regulation (EC) No 715/2009.

After the introduction of the concept of the entry-exit system by Regulation (EC) No 715/2009, transmission costs are no longer directly associated to one specific route as entry and exit capacity can be contracted separately, and network users can have gas transported from any entry to any exit point. Under this framework, the transmission system operator decides the most efficient way of flowing gas through the system. Hence, in order to achieve and ensure a reasonable level of cost reflectivity and predictability in such a system, transmission tariffs need to be based on a reference price methodology using specific cost drivers. The guiding principles in order to apply a consistent and transparent reference price methodology should be set out. The obligation to consult on the proposed reference price methodology should be laid down. Where the proposed reference price methodology is other than the capacity weighted distance reference price methodology, the latter should serve as a counterfactual for comparison with the proposed reference price methodology.

In order to avoid double charging for transmission to and from storage facilities, this Regulation should set a minimum discount acknowledging the general contribution to system flexibility and security of supply of such infrastructure. Storage facilities with direct access to the transmission systems of two or more transmission system operators in directly connected entry-exit systems, or simultaneously to a transmission system and a distribution system allow for transporting gas between directly connected systems. Applying a discount at entry points from or exit points to storage facilities in cases where storage facilities are used to transport gas between directly connected systems would benefit these network users compared to other network users booking capacity products without a discount at interconnection points or using storage facilities to transport gas within the same system. This Regulation should introduce mechanisms...