France’s largest natural gas distributor, operating Europe’s longest gas network
GRDF (Gaz Réseau Distribution France) is France’s leading natural gas distribution system operator, responsible for delivering natural gas to over 11 million customers across the country. Established in 2007 as a subsidiary of ENGIE Group, GRDF inherited more than 60 years of expertise from Gaz de France and now manages the largest gas distribution network in Europe, spanning over 200,000 kilometers. The company’s core mission is to design, build, operate, maintain, and develop the national natural gas network, ensuring safety, reliability, and quality of service for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. GRDF is a neutral and independent entity, providing open access to its infrastructure for all gas suppliers and supporting France’s energy transition through the integration of renewable gases and advanced decarbonization strategies. GRDF invests heavily in network maintenance, safety, and innovation, including the deployment of smart gas meters and the development of biomethane injection sites. The company is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and aims to achieve 20% renewable gas in its network by 2030, aligning its operations with the Paris Agreement’s climate goals.
GRDF’s leadership structure includes a Board of Directors responsible for strategic direction and governance, with key executives overseeing operations, safety, innovation, and sustainability. Laurence Poirier-Dietz serves as CEO, leading a management team focused on energy transition and customer service excellence. The company employs over 11,500 staff, supported by hundreds of apprentices and permanent recruits annually, reflecting a strong commitment to workforce development and operational expertise.
GRDF operates and maintains a 200,000+ kilometer natural gas distribution network, the longest in Europe, with advanced monitoring and safety systems operating 24/7. The company has invested in smart gas meter deployment for its customer base and supports over 500 biomethane injection sites connected to its grid. Technology initiatives focus on network reliability, safety, renewable energy integration, and digital transformation to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.
GRDF’s network covers 9,583 municipalities in France, serving 77% of the national population with natural gas distribution. The company’s infrastructure reaches all major regions, providing energy for heating, cooking, mobility, and industrial processes. GRDF’s presence is exclusively in France, but its network is recognized as the largest and most advanced in Europe, supporting both conventional and renewable gas supply chains.
GRDF reported annual revenue of €3.62 billion in 2016, positioning it among the top decile of French companies in the energy and utilities sector. The company invests over €762 million annually in network maintenance and development, with a strong financial foundation supporting ongoing innovation and infrastructure upgrades. GRDF’s financial performance is driven by its public service mission, extensive customer base, and strategic focus on energy transition and sustainability.
GRDF specializes in the design, operation, and maintenance of natural gas distribution networks, providing reliable energy delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Services include network connection, emergency response, smart meter installation, and support for renewable gas integration. The company also offers technical solutions for decarbonization, energy efficiency, and biomethane injection, helping customers reduce their carbon footprint. GRDF’s capabilities extend to 24/7 network monitoring, safety management, and collaboration with local authorities to ensure secure and sustainable energy supply. While GRDF does not operate as an NVOCC in the maritime sector, its expertise lies in terrestrial gas logistics and infrastructure management.
