### those obligations include meeting the emission limits set out in annex i. for the purposes of determining compliance with the euro 6 emission limits set out in table 2 of annex i , the emission values determined during any valid real driving emissions (rde) test shall be divided by the applicable conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i. the result shall remain below the euro 6 emission limits set out in table 2 of that annex.; ### those obligations include meeting the emission limits set out in annex i.


### those obligations include meeting the emission limits set out in annex i. for the purposes of determining compliance with the euro 6 emission limits set out in table 2 of annex i , the emission values determined during any valid real driving emissions (rde) test shall be divided by the applicable conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i. the result shall remain below the euro 6 emission limits set out in table 2 of that annex.; ### those obligations include meeting the emission limits set out in annex i.;


### 1. with effect from 2 july 2007 , if a manufacturer so requests , the national authorities may not , on grounds relating to emissions or fuel consumption of vehicles , refuse to grant ec type approval or national type approval for a new type of vehicle , or prohibit the registration , sale or entry into service of a new vehicle , where the vehicle concerned complies with this regulation , and in particular with the euro 5 limit values set out in table 1 of annex i or with the euro 6 limit values set out in table 2 of annex i , subject to the second subparagraph of article 4(1). ### 1. national authorities may on grounds relating to emissions or fuel consumption of vehicles refuse to grant ec type approval or national type approval for a new type of vehicle , or may prohibit the registration , sale or entry into service of a new vehicle , including where the vehicle concerned complies with this regulation , and in particular with the euro 5 limit values set out in table 1 of annex i or with the euro 6 limit values set out in table 2 of annex i , subject to the second subparagraph of article 4(1).


### 1. with effect from 2 july 2007 , if a manufacturer so requests , the national authorities may not , on grounds relating to emissions or fuel consumption of vehicles , refuse to grant ec type approval or national type approval for a new type of vehicle , or prohibit the registration , sale or entry into service of a new vehicle , where the vehicle concerned complies with this regulation , and in particular with the euro 5 limit values set out in table 1 of annex i or with the euro 6 limit values set out in table 2 of annex i , subject to the second subparagraph of article 4(1). ### 1. with effect from 2 july 2007 , if a manufacturer so requests , the national authorities may not , on grounds relating to emissions or fuel consumption of vehicles , refuse to grant ec type approval or national type approval for a new type of vehicle , or prohibit the registration , sale or entry into service of a new vehicle , where the vehicle concerned complies with this regulation , and in particular with the euro 5 limit values set out in table 1 of annex i or with the euro 6 limit values set out in table 2 of annex i.


### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall , during any valid rde test , be determined by taking into account the pollutant-specific conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1). ### deleted


### the compliance with the euro 6 limit values shall , during any valid rde test , be determined by taking into account the pollutant-specific conformity factor set out in table 2a of annex i in accordance with the second subparagraph of article 4(1).; ### deleted


### with effect from 1 september 2015 , and from 1 september 2016 in the case of category n1 class ii and iii and category n2 vehicles , national authorities shall , in the case of new vehicles which do not comply with this regulation , and in particular with the euro 6 limit values set out in table 2 of annex i , ["as determined in accordance with the second subparagraph of paragraph 4" ,] consider certificates of conformity to be no longer valid for the purposes of article 18 of directive 2007/46/ec and shall , on grounds relating to emissions or fuel consumption , prohibit the registration , sale or entry into service of such vehicles. ### with effect from 1 september 2015 , and from 1 september 2016 in the case of category n1 class ii and iii and category n2 vehicles , national authorities shall , in the case of new vehicles which do not comply with this regulation , and in particular with the euro 6 limit values set out in table 2 of annex i , consider certificates of conformity to be no longer valid for the purposes of article 18 of directive 2007/46/ec and shall , on grounds relating to emissions or fuel consumption , prohibit the registration , sale or entry into service of such vehicles.


### supplementing this regulation in order to adapt the procedures , tests and requirements as well as the test cycles used to measure emissions in order to adequately reflect real driving emissions; ### supplementing this regulation in order to adapt the procedures , tests and requirements as well as the test cycles used to measure emissions in order to adequately reflect real driving emissions under all normal conditions of use , in particular in view of extending the temperature and altitude boundary conditions to the maximum capability of the best in class pems equipment , removing the maximum cumulative positive altitude gain permissible during the trip , removing the additional 1 ,6 conformity factor for pollutant emissions measured during extended ambient boundary conditions , and addressing hazardous spikes in particles resulting from filter cleaning;


### amending this regulation in order to adapt to technical progress the pollutant-specific final conformity factors set out in table 2a to annex i.; ### deleted


### 2. the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 5(3) , article 8 and article 14(2) and (3) shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from ... [date of entry into force ]. the commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than nine months before the end of the five-year period. the delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council opposes such extension not later than three months before the end of each period. ### 2. the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 5(3) , article 8 and article 14(2) and (3) shall be conferred on the commission for a period of two years from ... [date of entry into force ]. the commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than six months before the end of the two-year period. the delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council opposes such extension not later than three months before the end of each period.


### (2) regulation (ec) no 715/2007 requires new light-duty vehicles to comply with certain emission limits (euro 5 and euro 6 standards) and lays down additional requirements on access to vehicle repair and maintenance information. the specific technical provisions necessary to implement that regulation were set out in commission regulation (ec) no 692/200816 and subsequently , in commission regulation (eu) 2017/115117. ### (2) regulation (ec) no 715/2007 requires new light-duty vehicles to comply with certain emission limits (euro 5 and euro 6 standards) and lays down additional requirements on access to vehicle repair and maintenance information , which were amended and further consolidated by regulation (eu) 2018/85815a , which will apply as of 1 september 2020. the specific technical provisions necessary to implement regulation (ec) no 715/2007 were set out in commission regulation (ec) no 692/200816 and subsequently , in commission regulation (eu) 2017/115117.


### mass of oxides of nitrogen (nox) ### mass of oxides of nitrogen (nox)


### […] ### deleted


### 1. requirements pursuant to article 4 , third subparagraph , point (h) for public contracts awarded by contracting authorities , as defined in article 2(1) of directive 2014/24/eu or article 3(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , or contracting entities , as defined in article 4(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , may take the form of mandatory technical specifications , selection criteria , award criteria , contract performance clauses , or targets , as appropriate. ### 1. requirements pursuant to article 4 , third subparagraph , point (h) for public contracts awarded by contracting authorities , as defined in article 2(1) of directive 2014/24/eu or article 3(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , or contracting entities , as defined in article 4(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , shall take the form of mandatory technical specifications , selection criteria , award criteria , contract performance clauses , or targets , as appropriate.


### 1. requirements pursuant to article 4 , third subparagraph , point (h) for public contracts awarded by contracting authorities , as defined in article 2(1) of directive 2014/24/eu or article 3(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , or contracting entities , as defined in article 4(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , may take the form of mandatory technical specifications , selection criteria , award criteria , contract performance clauses , or targets , as appropriate. ### 1. requirements pursuant to article 4 , third subparagraph , point (h) for public contracts awarded by contracting authorities , as defined in article 2(1) of directive 2014/24/eu or article 3(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , or contracting entities , as defined in article 4(1) of directive 2014/25/eu , will take the form of mandatory technical specifications , selection criteria , award criteria , contract performance clauses , or targets , as appropriate.


### the economic feasibility for contracting authorities or contracting entities to buy more environmentally sustainable products , without entailing disproportionate costs. ### deleted


### no sooner than [8 years after the date of application of this regulation] , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of this regulation and of its contribution to the functioning of the internal market and the improvement of the environmental sustainability of products. the commission shall present a report on the main findings to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , and the committee of the regions. member states shall provide the commission with the information necessary for the preparation of that report. ### no later than [7 years after the date of application of this regulation] , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of this regulation and of its contribution to the functioning of the internal market and the improvement of the environmental sustainability of products. the commission shall present a report on the main findings to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , and the committee of the regions. member states shall provide the commission with the information necessary for the preparation of that report.


### the following parameters may , as appropriate , and where necessary supplemented by others , be used as a basis for improving the product aspects referred to in article 5(1): ### the following parameters shall , as appropriate , and where necessary supplemented by others , be used as a basis for improving the product aspects referred to in article 5(1):


### use of substances , on their own , as constituents of substances or in mixtures , during the production process of products , or leading to their presence in products , including once these products become waste; ### use of substances , and in particular the use of substances of concern , on their own , as constituents of substances or in mixtures , during the production process of products , or leading to their presence in products , including once these products become waste;


### this regulation establishes a framework to improve the environmental sustainability of products and to ensure free movement in the internal market by setting ecodesign requirements that products shall fulfil to be placed on the market or put into service. those ecodesign requirements , which shall be further elaborated by the commission in delegated acts , relate to: ### this regulation establishes a framework to improve the environmental sustainability of products and digital services in order to make sustainable products and digital services the norm , and to reduce their overall environmental , carbon and material footprint over their lifecycle to respect planetary boundaries by 2050 at the latest , as well as to improve their social sustainability and to ensure free movement in the internal market by setting ecodesign requirements that products shall fulfil to be placed on the market or put into service. those ecodesign requirements , which shall be further elaborated by the commission in delegated acts , relate to:


### (18) ‘refurbishment’ means preparing or modifying an object that is waste or a product to restore its performance or functionality within the intended use , range of performance and maintenance originally conceived at the design stage , or to meet applicable technical standards or regulatory requirements , with the result of making a fully functional product; ### (18) ‘refurbishment’ means testing , and where necessary performing repair and maintenance , as well as deleting data connected to the previous use , including personal data , in case of electronic devices , by a professional , on an object that is waste or a second-hand product to restore its functionality within the intended use originally conceived at the design stage before making it available on the market. refurbishment may also include improving the aesthetics of the product;


### (21) ‘durability’ means the ability of a product to function as required , under specified conditions of use , maintenance and repair , until a limiting event prevents its functioning; ### (21) ‘durability’ means the ability of a product to function and maintain for a certain period of time its required function and performance under normal conditions of use , maintenance and repair;


### (22) ‘reliability’ means the probability that a product functions as required under given conditions for a given duration without a limiting event; ### (22) ‘reliability’ means the high probability that a product functions as required under given conditions for a given duration without a limiting event;


### meets the criteria laid down in article 57 and is identified in accordance with article 59(1) of regulation (ec) no 1907/2006; or ### meets the criteria laid down in article 57 or is identified in accordance with article 59(1) of regulation (ec) no 1907/2006; or


### 2. performance requirements referred to in paragraph 1 shall be based on the product parameters referred to in annex i and shall , as appropriate , include: ### 2. performance requirements referred to in paragraph 1 shall be based on the product parameters referred to in annex i and take into account the elements and objectives mentioned in article 5 (4) and shall , as appropriate , include:


### 3. performance requirements based on the product parameter set out in annex i , point (f) , shall not restrict the presence of substances in products for reasons relating primarily to chemical safety. ### deleted


### 4. when establishing performance requirements , the commission shall follow the procedure set out in annex ii. ### 4. when establishing performance requirements , the commission shall follow the procedure set out in annex ii. the level of performance shall be set through several tiers , with the first tier corresponding to the minimum performance to be fulfilled. the multiple tiers shall be set according to a top performer approach , where the level of performances defined for each tier shall be gradually increased to the level of the best performing products and best available technologies.


### (4) as part of the package “clean energy for all europeans” proposed by the commission on 30 november 2016 , regulation (eu) 2019/9436 and directive (eu) 2019/9447 brought about a further step in the development of the internal market for electricity with citizens at its core and contributing to the union’s objectives of transition to a clean energy system and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. the internal market in natural gas should be built on those same principles and , in particular , ensure an equal level of consumer protection. ### (4) as part of the package “clean energy for all europeans” proposed by the commission on 30 november 2016 , regulation (eu) 2019/943 and directive (eu) 2019/944 brought about a further step in the development of the internal market for electricity with citizens at its core and contributing to the union’s objectives of transition to a clean energy system and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. the internal market in natural gas should be built on those same principles and , ensure that consumers are not subsidising investments that they will not be using in the future as well as minimising the risk of stranded assets and their related future costs.


### (4) as part of the package “clean energy for all europeans” proposed by the commission on 30 november 2016 , regulation (eu) 2019/9436 and directive (eu) 2019/9447 brought about a further step in the development of the internal market for electricity with citizens at its core and contributing to the union’s objectives of transition to a clean energy system and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. the internal market in natural gas should be built on those same principles and , in particular , ensure an equal level of consumer protection. ### (4) as part of the package “clean energy for all europeans” proposed by the commission on 30 november 2016 , regulation (eu) 2019/9436 and directive (eu) 2019/9447 brought about a further step in the development of the internal market for electricity with citizens at its core and contributing to the union’s objectives of transition to a clean energy system and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. the internal market in natural gas should be built on those same principles and , ensure that consumers are not subsidising investments that they will not be using in the future as well as minimising the risk of stranded assets and their related future cost.


### (5) the union has aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions. it has therefore adopted a set of initiatives to reach that goal , including the energy system integration strategy and the hydrogen strategy published by the commission in july 2020 , which set out how to update the energy markets , including the decarbonisation of gas markets as well as regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and regulation (eu) 2021/1119. this directive should contribute to achieving these goals , ensuring security of supply and a well-functioning internal market for gases , including for hydrogen. ### (5) the union has aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 , and become the first climate neutral continent by 2050 , set out in the european green deal and the paris agreement. it has therefore adopted a set of initiatives to reach that goal , including the energy system integration strategy and the hydrogen strategy published by the commission in july 2020 , which set out how to update the energy markets , including the decarbonisation of gas markets as well as regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and regulation (eu) 2021/1119. this directive should contribute to achieving these goals , ensuring security of supply and a well-functioning internal market for renewable gases , including for hydrogen.


### (5) the union has aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions. it has therefore adopted a set of initiatives to reach that goal , including the energy system integration strategy and the hydrogen strategy published by the commission in july 2020 , which set out how to update the energy markets , including the decarbonisation of gas markets as well as regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and regulation (eu) 2021/1119. this directive should contribute to achieving these goals , ensuring security of supply and a well-functioning internal market for gases , including for hydrogen. ### (5) the union has aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions and to promote efficient and integrated energy systems.. it has therefore adopted a set of initiatives to reach that goal , including the energy system integration strategy and the hydrogen strategy published by the commission in july 2020 , and the recommendation on the energy efficiency first principle published by the commission in september 2021 which set out how to update the energy markets. these initiatives also call for transitioning to a more circular energy system with energy efficiency at its core , greater direct electrification of end-use sectors , prioritising demand-side solutions whenever they are more cost-effective than investments in energy infrastructure , and using renewable fuels , including hydrogen , only for end-use applications where electrification is not feasible , not efficient or involves higher costs the union has also adopted a set of initiatives and mandatory targets to encourage decarbonisation in regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and regulation (eu) 2021/1119. this directive should contribute to achieving these goals , as well as the repowereu ambition to phase out fossil imports from russia as soon as possible ensuring security of supply and a well-functioning internal market for gases , including for hydrogen and limiting as much as possible methane and hydrogen leakages.


### (6) this directive aims to facilitate the penetration of renewable and low-carbon gases into the energy system enabling a shift from fossil gas and to allow these new gases to play an important role towards achieving the eu’s 2030 climate objectives and climate neutrality in 2050. the directive aims also to set up a regulatory framework which enables and incentivises all market participants to take the transitional role of fossil gas into account while planning their activities to avoid lock-in effects and ensure gradual and timely phase-out of fossil gas notably in all relevant industrial sectors and for heating purposes. ### (6) this directive aims to facilitate the penetration of renewable and low-carbon gases into the energy system enabling a phasing-out from fossil gas and to allow these new gases to play an important role towards achieving the eu’s 2030 climate objectives and climate neutrality in 2050. the directive aims also to set up a regulatory framework which enables and incentivises all market participants to shift away from fossil gas , and planning their activities to avoid lock-in effects in any kind of fossil fuel , as well as ensure gradual and timely phase-out of fossil gas notably in all relevant industrial sectors and for heating purposes.


### (6) this directive aims to facilitate the penetration of renewable and low-carbon gases into the energy system enabling a shift from fossil gas and to allow these new gases to play an important role towards achieving the eu’s 2030 climate objectives and climate neutrality in 2050. the directive aims also to set up a regulatory framework which enables and incentivises all market participants to take the transitional role of fossil gas into account while planning their activities to avoid lock-in effects and ensure gradual and timely phase-out of fossil gas notably in all relevant industrial sectors and for heating purposes. ### (6) this directive aims to facilitate the penetration of sustainable renewable gases into the energy system enabling a phase-out of fossil gas and to allow renewable gases to make their contribution towards achieving the eu’s 2030 energy and climate objectives and climate neutrality in 2050 , as well as to steering of gaseous molecules towards those applications and sectors that cannot be directly electrified with renewables , with this creating the necessary space for renewables electricity and other thermal renewables for heating and transport purposes. the directive aims also to set up a regulatory framework which enables and incentivises all market participants to shift away from fossil gas , and planning their activities to avoid lock-in effects of any kind of fossil fuel or inefficient use of energy and ensure phase-out of fossil gas notably in all relevant industrial sectors and for heating purposes.


### (8) in line with the eu hydrogen strategy , renewable hydrogen is expected to be deployed on a large-scale from 2030 onwards for the purpose of decarbonising certain sectors , ranging from aviation and shipping to hard-to-decarbonise industrial sectors. all final customers connected to hydrogen systems will benefit from basic consumer rights applicable to final customers connected to the natural gas system such as the right to switch supplier and accurate billing information. in those instances where customers are connected to the hydrogen network , e.g. industrial customers , they will benefit from the same consumer protection rights applicable to natural gas customers. however , consumer provisions designed to encourage household participation on the market such as price comparison tools , active customers and citizen energy communities do not apply to the hydrogen system. ### (8) in line with the repower eu strategy , 10 mt of domestic renewable hydrogen and 10 mt of imported renewable hydrogen are expected to be deployed on a large-scale by 2030 for the purpose of decarbonising certain sectors and applications that do not have any other more sustainable and energy efficient renewable solutions , ranging from aviation and shipping to hard-to-decarbonise industrial sectors. all final customers connected to hydrogen systems will benefit from basic consumer rights applicable to final customers connected to the natural gas system such as the right to switch supplier and accurate billing information. in those instances where customers are connected to the hydrogen network , e.g. industrial customers , they will benefit from the same consumer protection rights applicable to natural gas customers. however , consumer provisions designed to encourage household participation on the market such as price comparison tools do not apply to the hydrogen system.


### (8) in line with the eu hydrogen strategy , renewable hydrogen is expected to be deployed on a large-scale from 2030 onwards for the purpose of decarbonising certain sectors , ranging from aviation and shipping to hard-to-decarbonise industrial sectors. all final customers connected to hydrogen systems will benefit from basic consumer rights applicable to final customers connected to the natural gas system such as the right to switch supplier and accurate billing information. in those instances where customers are connected to the hydrogen network , e.g. industrial customers , they will benefit from the same consumer protection rights applicable to natural gas customers. however , consumer provisions designed to encourage household participation on the market such as price comparison tools , active customers and citizen energy communities do not apply to the hydrogen system. ### (8) in line with the repowereu , 10 mt of domestic renewable hydrogen and 10 mt of imported renewable hydrogen are expected to be deployed on a large-scale by 2030 for the purpose of decarbonising certain sectors and applications that do not have any other more sustainable and energy efficient renewable solutions , ranging from aviation and shipping to hard-to-decarbonise industrial sectors. all those relevant final customers connected to hydrogen systems will benefit from basic consumer rights applicable to final customers connected to the natural gas system such as the right to switch supplier and accurate billing information. in those instances where non-household customers are connected to the hydrogen network , e.g. high temperature industrial customers , they will benefit from the same consumer protection rights applicable to natural gas customers. however , consumer provisions designed to encourage household participation on the market such as price comparison tools , and active customers do not apply to the hydrogen system.


### (11) consumer interests should be at the heart of this directive and quality of service should be a central responsibility of natural gas undertakings. existing rights of consumers and rights for access to essential services , including energy , and safeguarding against energy poverty , as stated in the european pillar of social rights communication need to be strengthened and guaranteed , and should include greater transparency. consumer protection should ensure that all consumers in the wider remit of the union benefit from a competitive gas market. consumer rights should be enforced by member states or , where a member state has so provided , the regulatory authorities. ### (11) consumer interests should be at the heart of this directive and quality of service should be a central responsibility of natural gas undertakings. existing rights of consumers and rights for access to essential services , including energy , as well as the right to a secure and affordable energy supply , and safeguarding against energy poverty , as stated in the european pillar of social rights communication need to be strengthened and guaranteed , and should include greater transparency. to this respect , any cross-subsidisation of hydrogen network through gas or electricity network tariffs should not be allowed , as it puts the burden of the energy transition of the industry sector on gas or electricity users , including households , by increasing their gas or electricity bills , while they are not expected to use hydrogen in the future. consumer protection should ensure that all consumers in the wider remit of the union benefit from a competitive gas market. consumer rights should be enforced by member states or , where a member state has so provided , the regulatory authorities.


### (11) consumer interests should be at the heart of this directive and quality of service should be a central responsibility of natural gas undertakings. existing rights of consumers and rights for access to essential services , including energy , and safeguarding against energy poverty , as stated in the european pillar of social rights communication need to be strengthened and guaranteed , and should include greater transparency. consumer protection should ensure that all consumers in the wider remit of the union benefit from a competitive gas market. consumer rights should be enforced by member states or , where a member state has so provided , the regulatory authorities. ### (11) consumer interests should be at the heart of this directive and quality of service should be a central responsibility of natural gas undertakings. existing rights of consumers and rights for access to essential services , including energy , including the right to a secure , affordable and renewable-based energy supply , and safeguarding against energy poverty , as stated in the european pillar of social rights communication need to be strengthened and guaranteed , and should include greater transparency. to this respect , any cross-subsidisation of hydrogen network through gas or electricity network tariffs shall not be allowed , as it puts the burden of the energy transition of the industry sector on gas or electricity users , including households , by increasing their gas or electricity bills , while they are not expected to use hydrogen in the future. consumer protection should ensure that all consumers in the wider remit of the union benefit from a competitive gas market. consumer rights should be enforced by member states or , where a member state has so provided , the regulatory authorities.


### (14) member states should have a wide discretion to impose public service obligations on gas undertakings in pursuing objectives of general economic interest. however , public service obligations in the form of price setting for the supply of natural gas constitute a fundamentally distortive measure that often leads to the accumulation of tariff deficits , the limitation of consumer choice , poorer incentives for energy saving and energy efficiency investments , lower standards of service , lower levels of consumer engagement and satisfaction , and the restriction of competition , as well as to there being fewer innovative products and services on the market. consequently , member states should apply other policy tools , in particular targeted social policy measures , to safeguard the affordability of natural gas supply to their citizens. public interventions in price setting for the supply of natural gas should be carried out only as public service obligations and should be subject to specific conditions. a fully liberalised , well-functioning retail natural gas market would stimulate price and non-price competition among existing suppliers and provide incentives to new market entrants , thereby improving consumer choice and satisfaction. ### (14) member states should have a wide discretion to impose public service obligations on gas undertakings in case these are pursuing objectives of the energy and climate legislation , are aligned to the member states national energy and climate plan objectives and its national targets especially regarding electrification , renewable energy expansion , energy efficiency improvements and emission reductions , as well as on general economic interest. however , public service obligations in the form of price setting for the supply of natural gas constitute a fundamentally distortive measure that often leads to the accumulation of tariff deficits , the limitation of consumer choice , poorer incentives for energy saving and energy efficiency investments , lower standards of service , lower levels of consumer engagement and satisfaction , and the restriction of competition , as well as to there being fewer innovative products and services on the market. consequently , member states should apply other policy tools , in particular targeted social policy measures , to safeguard the affordability of natural gas supply to their citizens. public interventions in price setting for the supply of natural gas should be carried out only in the framework of exceptional circumstances , as public service obligations , and be limited in time , while being subject to specific conditions. a fully liberalised , well-functioning retail natural gas market would stimulate price and non-price competition among existing suppliers and provide incentives to new market entrants , thereby improving consumer choice and satisfaction , as well as supporting the transition to an integrated , highly energy efficient and fully renewable based energy system according to the relevant union targets , legislation and strategies. .


### (19) market rules should protect and empower customers to make low carbon choices , in order for new renewable and low carbon gases to be fully embedded in the energy transition. ### (19) market rules should protect and empower customers to make energy efficient and renewable choices , in order for new renewable gases to be fully embedded in the energy transition.


### (19) market rules should protect and empower customers to make low carbon choices , in order for new renewable and low carbon gases to be fully embedded in the energy transition. ### (19) market rules should protect and empower customers to make energy efficient and renewable choices , in order for new renewable gases to be steered to those applications where no other more energy efficient renewable-based solution exist. there is for example no financial or environmental benefit in supplying hydrogen to individual heating appliances and such uses should therefore not be encouraged as a general principle.


### (20) natural gas still plays a key role in energy supply , as household energy consumption from natural gas is still higher than from electricity. although electrification is a key element of the green transition , in the future there will still be household natural gas consumption including increasing volumes of renewable gas. ### (20) currently , household energy consumption from natural gas is still higher than from electricity. high levels of renewable based electrification wherever is technically feasible is a key element of the green transition , whereas only a minor role for sustainable renewable based gases may be still relevant at household level in certain circumstances , as for instance in rural communities.


### (20) natural gas still plays a key role in energy supply , as household energy consumption from natural gas is still higher than from electricity. although electrification is a key element of the green transition , in the future there will still be household natural gas consumption including increasing volumes of renewable gas. ### (20) currently , household energy consumption from fossil gas is still higher than from electricity. high levels of renewable based electrification wherever is technically feasible is a key element of the green transition , as it is a more energy efficient and sustainable alternative to burning gases , including renewable one , for heat purposes. therefore , it is necessary to introduce a gas switch mandate at national level.


### (23) as in the electricity sector , market flexibilities and an adequate union consumer rights’ legal framework in the natural gas sector are essential to ensure that consumers can participate in the energy transition and benefit from affordable prices , good standards of service , and effective choice of offers mirroring technological developments. ### (23) as in the electricity sector , market flexibilities and an adequate union consumer rights’ legal framework in the natural gas sector are essential to ensure that citizens can participate in the energy transition and benefit from affordable prices , good standards of service , and effective choice of offers mirroring sustainable technological developments.


### (23) as in the electricity sector , market flexibilities and an adequate union consumer rights’ legal framework in the natural gas sector are essential to ensure that consumers can participate in the energy transition and benefit from affordable prices , good standards of service , and effective choice of offers mirroring technological developments. ### (23) as in the electricity sector , market flexibilities and an adequate union consumer rights’ legal framework in the natural gas sector are essential to ensure that citizens can benefit from affordable prices , good standards of service , and effective choice of offers mirroring sustainable technological developments. unlike in the electricity sector the main focus of consumer regulation for the gas market should be on protection from rising tariffs during the phase out of fossil fuel assets , protection from cross subsidisation between gas and hydrogen users , rising gas tariffs with a shrinking customer base. most households will not be using gaseous fuels in the future , but will either be electrified , supplied by district heating or be heating with a heat pump or other thermal renewables.


### (24) the switch from fossil gas to renewable alternatives will concretise if energy from renewable sources becomes an attractive , non-discriminatory choice for consumers based on truly transparent information where the transition costs are fairly distributed among different groups of consumers and market players. ### (24) the switch from fossil gas to renewable alternatives is an attractive , non-discriminatory choice for consumers based on truly transparent information where the transition costs are fairly distributed among different groups of consumers and market players and whose benefits are reap especially at local level. however , unlike in the electricity sector , switching from gas to other renewable technologies , mostly not gaseous , is usually not as easy due to the lock-in effect related to the underpinning infrastructure. the directive should therefore strive for creating a level playing field among different heat sources , and give better space for sustainable renewables ones.


### (27) to be coherent and effective , this mirroring approach should be encompass all consumer protection and empowerment provisions , whenever feasible and adaptable to the gas market. this should go from basic contractual rights to rules for billing information , switching energy provider , having at disposal reliable comparison tools , protecting vulnerable and energy poor consumers , ensuring adequate data protection for smart meters and data management , and efficient alternative dispute resolution rules. ### (27) to be coherent and effective , this mirroring approach should encompass all consumer protection provisions. this should go from basic contractual rights to rules for billing information , switching energy provider , having at disposal reliable comparison tools , protecting vulnerable and energy poor consumers , ensuring adequate data protection for smart meters and data management , and efficient alternative dispute resolution rules.


### (29) the modernisation of the gas sector is expected to lead to substantial economic benefits in terms of both improved retail competition and its social and distributional benefits and customer empowerment , including strengthened contractual rights and better available information on consumption and energy sources leading to greener choices. energy communities-of-interest should contribute to the uptake of renewable gas. ### (29) the integration of renewable gases , particularly sustainable biomethane , into the natural gas system is expected to lead to improved retail competition , strengthened contractual rights and better available information on consumption and energy sources leading to greener choices , which also include uptaking energy efficiency measures and switching from gas to other more sustainable and energy efficient renewable energy sources. renewable energy communities could play a role in the uptake of sustainable renewable gas.


### (29) the modernisation of the gas sector is expected to lead to substantial economic benefits in terms of both improved retail competition and its social and distributional benefits and customer empowerment , including strengthened contractual rights and better available information on consumption and energy sources leading to greener choices. energy communities-of-interest should contribute to the uptake of renewable gas. ### (29) the integration of renewable gases into the natural gas system is expected to lead to improved retail competition , , strengthened contractual rights and better available information on consumption and energy sources leading to greener choices , which also include uptaking energy efficiency measures and switching from gas to other more sustainable and energy efficient renewable energy sources. acknowledging the need to produce biomethane respecting the strictest sustainability criteria , environmental standards , such as prevention of methane leakage , avoidance of food security issues , local biomethane production and supply may lead to economic benefits at the local level , in particular for the agricultural sector , and household and non-household customers located in the proximity of production areas. as an organizational concept aimed to drive social innovation , renewable energy communities could play a role in the uptake of sustainable renewable gas.


### (30) switching is an important indicator of consumer engagement as well as in important tool to boost competition on the natural gas market. switching rates remain inconsistent among member states and consumers are discouraged from switching by exit and termination fees. although removing such fees might limit consumer choice by eliminating products based on rewarding consumer loyalty , restricting their use further should improve consumer welfare , consumer engagement and competition in the market. ### (30) switching from fossil fuels to renewable energies is an important indicator of consumer engagement towards achieving the ecological transition. while the possibility of switching suppliers is an important tool to boost competition on the gas market and should therefore be guaranteed as basic right to consumers. switching rates remain inconsistent among member states and consumers are discouraged from switching both energy source and supplier by exit and termination fees. although removing such fees might limit consumer choice by eliminating products based on rewarding consumer loyalty , restricting their use further should improve consumer welfare , consumer engagement and competition in the market.


### (32) several factors impede consumers from accessing , understanding and acting upon the various sources of market information available to them. it follows that the comparability of offers should be improved and barriers to switching should be minimised to the greatest practicable extent without unduly limiting consumer choice. ### (32) several factors impede consumers from accessing , understanding and acting upon the various sources of market information available to them. it follows that the comparability of offers should be improved by providing greater access to information , including on the sustainability of the energy offers , and to comparison tools for all customers. barriers to switching should be eliminated without unduly limiting consumer choice.


### (33) independent comparison tools , including websites , are an effective means for smaller customers to assess the merits of the different energy offers that are available on the market. they should aim to include the broadest possible range of available offers , and to cover the market as completely as is feasible so as to give the customer a representative overview. it is crucial that smaller customers have access to at least one comparison tool and that the information given on such tools be trustworthy , impartial and transparent. to that end , member states could provide for a comparison tool that is operated by a national authority or a private company. ### (33) independent comparison tools , including websites , are an effective means for smaller customers to assess the merits and environmental impact of the different energy offers that are available on the market. they should aim to include the broadest possible range of available offers , and to cover the market as completely as is feasible so also give the customer a representative overview. this comparison tool should also include information on energy origins , share and quantity , as well as other relevant environmental impact indicators , including level of greenhouse gas emissions. it is crucial that smaller customers have access to at least one comparison tool and that the information given on such tools be trustworthy , impartial and transparent. to that end , member states could provide for a comparison tool that is operated by a national authority or a private company.


### (34) final customers should also be able to consume , to store and to sell self-generated renewable gas and participate in all natural gas markets by providing ancillary services to the system , for instance through energy storage. member states should be able to have different provisions in their national law with respect to taxes and levies for individual and jointly-acting active customers. ### deleted


### (34) final customers should also be able to consume , to store and to sell self-generated renewable gas and participate in all natural gas markets by providing ancillary services to the system , for instance through energy storage. member states should be able to have different provisions in their national law with respect to taxes and levies for individual and jointly-acting active customers. ### (34) in some cases , final customers , for example in the agricultural or municipal sector , who produce biogas as a by-product of their main economic activity , also be able to consume , to store and to sell self-generated renewable gas. to the extent that they are able to undertake these activities , respecting environmental standards , including around methane leakage , these customers should be able to participate in all natural gas markets , including local supply , by providing ancillary services to the system and energy storage. such collective arrangements between active customers can provide opportunities for service providers and local businesses , in particular smes , to contribute to local system balancing and flexibility. member states should be able to have different provisions in their national law with respect to taxes and levies for individual and jointly-acting active customers , while ensuring they contribute fairly to applicable taxes and levies , particularly for maintaining the grid and that there are no shifting of costs to non-participating customers such as final households and sme customers.


### (35) recognising the role they can play in decarbonizing the energy system , certain categories of citizen energy initiatives should be recognised in the natural gas market at the union level as ‘citizen energy communities’. these communities should facilitate the use of renewable gas in the natural gas system. in order to provide them with an enabling framework , fair treatment , a level playing field and a well-defined catalogue of rights and obligations should be laid down which generally reflects the membership structure , governance requirements and purpose of citizen energy communities in directive (eu) 2019/944. ### deleted


### (35) recognising the role they can play in decarbonizing the energy system , certain categories of citizen energy initiatives should be recognised in the natural gas market at the union level as ‘citizen energy communities’. these communities should facilitate the use of renewable gas in the natural gas system. in order to provide them with an enabling framework , fair treatment , a level playing field and a well-defined catalogue of rights and obligations should be laid down which generally reflects the membership structure , governance requirements and purpose of citizen energy communities in directive (eu) 2019/944. ### (35) renewable energy communities , pursuant to directive (eu) 2018/2001 can contribute to the production , storage and supply of renewable gas. in particular , renewable energy communities can help contribute to the development of a local circular economy , particularly in rural regions. renewable energy communities can also help consumers with the uptake of renewable gas offers , providing an alternative to fossil gas. integration of biomethane into the natural gas system should be pursued in a way that prevents the lock-in of natural fossil gas , respects environmental protection , sustainability , and properly weighs other potential impacts , for instance relating to food security. while market rules need to provide a level playing field for renewable gases , the commoditization of biomethane should be avoided , and caution should be used to ensure it is not over-supported by member states.


### (36) the provisions on citizen energy communities do not preclude the existence of other citizen initiatives such as renewable energy communities in directive (eu) 2018/2001 or those stemming from private law agreements. membership of citizen energy communities should be open to all categories of entities. however , the decision-making powers within a citizen energy community should be limited to those members or shareholders that are not engaged in large-scale commercial activity and for which the energy sector does not constitute a primary area of economic activity. this means that citizen energy communities and individual members or shareholders need to be financially and economically independent from entities engaged in such activities , notwithstanding the possibility for citizen energy communities to delegate the management of the installations required for their activities , including installation , operation , data handling and maintenance. ### deleted


### (36) the provisions on citizen energy communities do not preclude the existence of other citizen initiatives such as renewable energy communities in directive (eu) 2018/2001 or those stemming from private law agreements. membership of citizen energy communities should be open to all categories of entities. however , the decision-making powers within a citizen energy community should be limited to those members or shareholders that are not engaged in large-scale commercial activity and for which the energy sector does not constitute a primary area of economic activity. this means that citizen energy communities and individual members or shareholders need to be financially and economically independent from entities engaged in such activities , notwithstanding the possibility for citizen energy communities to delegate the management of the installations required for their activities , including installation , operation , data handling and maintenance. ### (36) due to the concentrated nature of the natural gas sector , and to prevent corporate capture , the decision-making powers within renewable energy communities should be limited to those members or shareholders that are not engaged in large-scale commercial activity and for which the energy sector does not constitute a primary area of economic activity. to avoid abuse and to ensure broad participation , renewable energy communities should be capable of remaining autonomous from individual members and other traditional market actors that participate in the community as members or shareholders , or who cooperate through other means such as investment. this means that renewable energy communities and individual members or shareholders need to be financially and economically independent from entities engaged in activities related to the energy community ,


### (37) bills and billing information are an important means to inform and empower final customers. energy bills remain the most common consumer concern and source of consumer complaints , a factor that contributes to the persistently low levels of consumer satisfaction and engagement in the gas sector. provisions for billing information in the gas sector also lag behind rights granted to consumers in the electricity sector. it is therefore necessary to align them and to set minimum requirements for bills and billing information in the gas sector , so that consumers have access to transparent , easy to understand information. bills should convey information to the final consumers on their consumption and costs , thus facilitating comparison between offers and switching supplier , as well as information on their consumer rights (such as on alternative dispute resolution). in addition , bills should be a tool to actively engage consumers in the market , so that consumers can manage their consumption patterns and make greener choices. ### (37) bills and billing information are an important means to inform and empower final customers. energy bills remain the most common consumer concern and source of consumer complaints , a factor that contributes to the persistently low levels of consumer satisfaction and engagement in the gas sector. provisions for billing information in the gas sector also lag behind rights granted to consumers in the electricity sector. it is therefore necessary to align them and to set minimum requirements for bills and billing information in the gas sector , so that consumers have access to transparent , complete , easy to understand information. bills should convey information to the final consumers on their consumption and costs , as greenhouse gas emission intensity , type of energy , its share and quantity , thus facilitating comparison between offers and switching supplier , as well as information on their consumer rights (such as on alternative dispute resolution). in addition , bills should be a tool to actively engage consumers in the market , so that consumers can manage their consumption patterns and make greener choices.


### (37) bills and billing information are an important means to inform and empower final customers. energy bills remain the most common consumer concern and source of consumer complaints , a factor that contributes to the persistently low levels of consumer satisfaction and engagement in the gas sector. provisions for billing information in the gas sector also lag behind rights granted to consumers in the electricity sector. it is therefore necessary to align them and to set minimum requirements for bills and billing information in the gas sector , so that consumers have access to transparent , easy to understand information. bills should convey information to the final consumers on their consumption and costs , thus facilitating comparison between offers and switching supplier , as well as information on their consumer rights (such as on alternative dispute resolution). in addition , bills should be a tool to actively engage consumers in the market , so that consumers can manage their consumption patterns and make greener choices. ### (37) bills and billing information are an important means to inform and empower final customers. energy bills remain the most common consumer concern and source of consumer complaints , a factor that contributes to the persistently low levels of consumer satisfaction and engagement in the gas sector. provisions for billing information in the gas sector also lag behind rights granted to consumers in the electricity sector. it is therefore necessary to align them and to set minimum requirements for bills and billing information in the gas sector , so that consumers have access to transparent , complete , easy to understand information. bills should convey information to the final consumers on their consumption and costs , greenhouse gas emission intensity , type of energy , its share and quantity , thus facilitating comparison between offers and switching supplier or energy sources , as well as information on their consumer rights (such as on alternative dispute resolution). in addition , bills should be a tool to actively engage consumers in the market , so that consumers can manage their consumption patterns and make greener choices.


### (45) member states should take appropriate measures , such as providing benefits by means of their social security systems , to ensure the necessary supply to vulnerable customers , or providing for support for energy efficiency improvements , to address energy poverty where identified pursuant to article 3(3) , point (d) of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 of the european parliament and of the council9 , including in the broader context of poverty. such measures could differ according to the particular circumstances in the member states in question and could include social or energy policy measures relating to the payment of gas bills , to investment in the energy efficiency of residential buildings , or to consumer protection such as disconnection safeguards. ### (45) member states should take appropriate measures , such as providing benefits by means of their social security systems , to ensure the necessary supply to vulnerable customers , or providing for support for energy efficiency improvements , including building renovations , and renewable energy deployment , to sustainably address energy poverty where identified pursuant to article 3(3) , point (d) of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 of the european parliament and of the council9 and directive ... [the energy efficiency directive - recast of the directive on energy efficiency 2021/0203 (cod)]including in the broader context of poverty. such measures could differ according to the particular circumstances in the member states in question and could include social or energy policy measures relating to the payment of gas bills , to investment in the energy efficiency of residential buildings , or to consumer protection such as disconnection safeguards.


### (46) pursuant to regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and directive (eu) 2019/944 of the european parliament and of the council10 , the commission provided indicative guidance11 on appropriate indicators for measuring energy poverty and defining a ‘significant number of households in energy poverty’. ### (46) pursuant to regulation (eu) 2018/1999 and directive (eu) 2019/944 of the european parliament and of the council10 , the commission provided indicative guidance11 on appropriate indicators for measuring energy poverty and defining a ‘significant number of households in energy poverty’ and directive ...[the energy efficiency directive - recast of the directive on energy efficiency 2021/0203 (cod)] ,) provides for clear set definition and back up set of criteria in case member states fail to define energy poverty according to relevant legislation.


### 1. this directive establishes common rules for the transmission , distribution , supply and storage of gases within the meaning of article 2 , point (2) using the natural gas system defined in point (3) of that article . it lays down the rules relating to the organisation and functioning of that sector , access to the market , the criteria and procedures applicable to the granting of authorisations for transmission , distribution , supply and storage of gases using the natural gas system and the operation of systems. ### 1. this directive establishes common rules for the transmission , distribution , supply and storage of gases within the meaning of article 2 , point (2) using the natural gas system defined in point (3) of that article together with consumer protection provisions , with a view to creating truly integrated , competitive , consumer-centred , flexible , fair , transparent and non-discriminatory markets for gases in the union. it lays down the rules relating to the organisation and functioning of that sector , access to the market , the criteria and procedures applicable to the granting of authorisations for transmission , distribution , supply and storage of gases using the natural gas system and the operation of systems.


### 1. this directive establishes common rules for the transmission , distribution , supply and storage of gases within the meaning of article 2 , point (2) using the natural gas system defined in point (3) of that article . it lays down the rules relating to the organisation and functioning of that sector , access to the market , the criteria and procedures applicable to the granting of authorisations for transmission , distribution , supply and storage of gases using the natural gas system and the operation of systems. ### 1. this directive establishes common rules for the transmission , distribution , supply and storage of gases within the meaning of article 2 , point (2) using the natural gas system defined in point (3) of that article , together with consumer protection provisions , with a view to creating truly integrated , competitive , consumer centred , flexible , fair , transparent and non-discriminatory markets for gases in the union. it lays down the rules relating to the organisation and functioning of that sector , access to the market , the criteria and procedures applicable to the granting of authorisations for transmission , distribution , supply and storage of gases using the natural gas system and the operation of systems.


### (69) ‘energy poverty’ means energy poverty as defined in point (49) of article 2 of directive (eu) 2021/0203 cod of the european parliament and of the council. ### (69) ‘energy poverty’ means energy poverty as defined in point (2) of article 2 of the [social and climate fund xxx/xxx].


### (70) ‘citizen energy community’ means a legal entity that: ### deleted


### (71) ‘active customer’ means a final natural gas customer , or a group of jointly acting final natural gas customers , who consumes or stores renewable gas , produced within its premises located within confined boundaries or , where permitted by a member state , within other premises , or who sells self-produced renewable gas using the natural gas system , or participates in energy efficiency schemes , provided that those activities do not constitute its primary commercial or professional activity; ### deleted


### (71) ‘active customer’ means a final natural gas customer , or a group of jointly acting final natural gas customers , who consumes or stores renewable gas , produced within its premises located within confined boundaries or , where permitted by a member state , within other premises , or who sells self-produced renewable gas using the natural gas system , or participates in energy efficiency schemes , provided that those activities do not constitute its primary commercial or professional activity; ### (71) ‘renewable-gas active customer’ means a non-household final natural gas customer in the agricultural or public sector , or a group of jointly acting non-household final natural gas customers , who consumes or stores renewable gas , produced within its premises located within confined boundaries or , where permitted by a member state , within other premises , or who sells self-produced renewable gas using the natural gas system , or participates in demand shifting schemes , provided that those activities do not constitute its primary commercial or professional activity;


### 2. member states shall ensure that their national law does not unduly hamper cross-border trade in gases , the functioning and emergence of liquid trading for gases , consumer participation , investments into , in particular , renewable and low carbon gases , or energy storage between member states , and shall ensure that prices for gases reflect actual demand and supply. ### 2. member states shall ensure that their national law does promotes a highly energy efficient and fully renewables-based energy market , not unduly hamper cross-border trade in gases , the phase out of fossil gas use and assets , the functioning and emergence of liquid trading for gases , consumer participation , investments into , in particular , renewable gases , or energy storage between member states , and shall ensure that prices for gases reflect actual demand and supply and do not discriminate against non gaseous heating solutions.


### 3. by way of derogation from paragraphs 1 and 2 , member states may apply public interventions in the price setting for the supply of natural gas to energy poor or vulnerable household customers. such public interventions shall be subject to the conditions set out in paragraphs 4 and 5. ### deleted


### 4. the obligations laid down in paragraph 2 shall apply regardless of whether low carbon fuels are produced within the union or are imported. information about the geographic origin and feedstock type of low carbon fuels or low carbon hydrogen per fuel supplier shall be made available to consumers on the websites of operators , suppliers or the relevant competent authorities and shall be updated on an annual basis. ### 4. the obligations laid down in paragraph 2 shall apply regardless of whether low carbon fuels are produced within the union or are imported. information about the geographic origin , feedstock type , life cycle ghg emissions , and other environmental criteria of low carbon fuels or low carbon hydrogen per fuel supplier shall be made available to consumers on the websites of operators , suppliers or the relevant competent authorities and shall be updated on a monthly basis.


### 4. the obligations laid down in paragraph 2 shall apply regardless of whether low carbon fuels are produced within the union or are imported. information about the geographic origin and feedstock type of low carbon fuels or low carbon hydrogen per fuel supplier shall be made available to consumers on the websites of operators , suppliers or the relevant competent authorities and shall be updated on an annual basis. ### 4. the obligations laid down in paragraph 2 shall apply regardless of whether renewable gases are produced within the union or are imported. information about the geographic origin and feedstock type of renewable gases per fuel supplier shall be made available to consumers on the websites of operators , suppliers or the relevant competent authorities and shall be updated on an annual basis.


### the identity and address of the supplier; ### the identity and address of the supplier , contact details (address , phone number and email of customer service);


### final customers shall be provided with a summary of the key contractual conditions in a prominent manner and in concise and simple language. ### final customers shall be provided with a summary of the key contractual conditions in a prominent manner and in concise and simple language. this summary shall be provided together with the key information on energy offers as referred to in paragraph 3(a) of this article.


### 5. suppliers shall provide final customers with transparent information on applicable prices and tariffs and on standard terms and conditions , in respect of access to and use of gases services. ### 5. suppliers shall provide final customers with transparent information on applicable prices , tariffs , standard terms and conditions , in respect of access to and use of gases services and , if relevant , on additional products and/or services bundled with the service.


### 10. suppliers shall provide natural gas household customers with adequate information on alternative measures to disconnection sufficiently in advance of any planned disconnection. such alternative measures may incluse information about sources of support to avoid disconnection , prepayment systems , energy audits , energy consultancy services , alternative payment plans , debt management advice or disconnection moratoria and shall not entail an extra cost to the customers facing disconnection. ### 10. suppliers shall provide natural gas household customers with adequate information on alternative measures to disconnection sufficiently in advance of any planned disconnection. such alternative measures shall include information about sources of support to avoid disconnection , prepayment systems , energy audits , energy consultancy services , alternative payment plans , debt management advice or disconnection moratoria and shall not entail an extra cost to the customers facing disconnection.


### 11. suppliers shall provide final customers with a final closure account after any switch of supplier no later than six weeks after such a switch has taken place ### 11. suppliers shall provide final customers with a final closure account after any switch of supplier no later than four weeks after such a switch has taken place


### 1. customers shall have the right to switch gases suppliers or market participants. member states shall ensure that a customer wishing to switch suppliers or market participants , while respecting contractual conditions , is entitled to such a switch within a maximum of three weeks from the date of the request. by 2026 at the latest , the technical process of switching supplier or market participant shall take no longer than 24 hours and shall be possible on any working day. ### 1. customers shall have the right to switch gases suppliers or market participants. switching supplier or market participant shall be carried out within the shortest possible time , and in any case not later than two weeks from the date of the request. member states shall ensure that a customer wishing to switch suppliers or market participants , while respecting contractual conditions , is entitled to such a switch within a maximum of two weeks from the date of the request. by 2026 at the latest , the technical process of switching supplier or market participant shall take no longer than 24 hours and shall be possible on any working day.


### 2. member states shall ensure that the right to switch supplier or market participant is granted to customers in a non-discriminatory manner as regards cost , effort and time. ### 2. member states shall ensure that the right to switch supplier or market participant is granted to all customers in a non-discriminatory manner as regards cost , effort and time.


### such fees shall be proportionate and shall not exceed the direct economic loss to the supplier or the market participant resulting from the customer's termination of the contract , including the costs of any bundled investments or services that have already been provided to the customer as part of the contract. the burden of proving the direct economic loss shall be on the supplier or market participant. the permissibility of contract termination fees shall be monitored by the regulatory authority , or by another competent national authority. ### such fees shall be proportionate and shall not exceed the direct economic loss to the supplier or the market participant resulting from the customer's termination of the contract , including the costs of any bundled investments or services that have already been provided to the customer as part of the contract. the burden of proving the direct economic loss shall be on the supplier or market participant. the permissibility of contract termination fees shall be monitored by the regulatory authority , or by another competent national authority.


### member states shall ensure that at least one tool covers the entire natural gas market. where multiple tools cover the market , those tools shall include , as complete as practicable , a range of gas offers covering a significant part of the market and , where those tools do not completely cover the market , a clear statement to that effect , before displaying results. ### member states shall ensure that at least one tool covers the entire natural gas market. where multiple tools cover the market , those tools shall include , as complete as practicable , a range of gas offers covering a significant part of the market and , where those tools do not completely cover the market , a clear statement to that effect , before displaying results.


### 3. member states may require comparison tools referred to in paragraph 1 to include comparative criteria relating to the nature of the services offered by the suppliers. ### 3. member states shall require comparison tools referred to in paragraph 1 to include comparative criteria relating to the nature of the services , including on aspects such as termination of contract or switching , availability of sustainable offers , the quality of the service , the availability of effective complaint-handling mechanisms , and the level of consumer satisfaction , offered by the suppliers.


### 4. member states shall appoint a competent authority to be responsible for issuing trust marks for comparison tools that meet the requirements set out in paragraph 1 , and for ensuring that comparison tools bearing a trust mark continue to meetthose requirements. that authority shall be independent of any market participants and comparison tool operators. ### 4. member states shall appoint a competent authority to be responsible for issuing trust marks for comparison tools that meet the requirements set out in paragraph 1 , and for ensuring that comparison tools bearing a trust mark continue to meet those requirements. that authority shall be independent of any market participants and comparison tool operators.


### article 13 ### deleted


### entitled to sell self-produced renewable natural gases using the natural gas system , ### entitled to sell self-produced renewable gases using the natural gas system ,


### 4. member states shall ensure that active customers that own facilities that store renewable gas: ### 4. member states shall ensure that renewable gas active customers that own facilities that store renewable gas:


### subject to fair compensation as assessed by the regulatory authority , relevant distribution system operators cooperate with citizen energy communities to facilitate transfers of renewable natural gases within citizen energy communities; ### entitle members or shareholders to leave the community , in which case article 11 applies;


### citizen energy communities are subject to non-discriminatory , fair , proportionate and transparent procedures and charges , including with respect to grid connection , registration and licensing , and to transparent , non-discriminatory and cost-reflective network charges , ensuring that they contribute in an adequate and balanced way to the overall cost sharing of the natural gas system. ### renewable energy communities are subject to non-discriminatory , fair , proportionate and transparent procedures and charges , including with respect to grid connection , registration and licensing , and to transparent , non-discriminatory and cost-reflective network charges , ensuring that they contribute in an adequate and balanced way to the overall cost sharing of the natural gas system.


### 2. member states may provide in the enabling regulatory framework that citizen energy communities: ### 2. member states shall ensure that final customers , in particular household customers , are entitled to participate in a renewable energy community while maintaining their rights or obligations as final customers , and without being subject to unjustified or discriminatory conditions or procedures that would prevent their participation in a renewable energy community , provided that for private undertakings , their participation does not constitute their primary commercial or professional activity.


### member states shall ensure that single points of contact are established to provide customers with all necessary information concerning their rights , the applicable law and dispute settlement mechanisms available to them in the event of a dispute. such single points of contact may be part of general consumer information points and may be the same entities as the single contact points for electricity referred to in article 26 of directive 2019/944/eu [on common rules for the internal market in electricity. ### member states shall ensure that single points of contact are established to provide customers with all necessary information concerning their rights , the applicable law and dispute settlement mechanisms available to them in the event of a dispute. such single points of contact may be part of general consumer information points and may be the same entities as the single contact points for electricity referred to in article 26 of directive 2019/944/eu [on common rules for the internal market in electricity] or one-stop-shops established under [red , eed , epbd xx/xx].


### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers , and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers. in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty. measures to protect vulnerable consumers may include , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection to such customers in critical times. ### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers , and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers. in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty. measures to protect vulnerable consumers shall include , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection to such customers in critical times , and in all cases during winter times.


### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers , and shall , in particular , ensure that there are adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable customers. in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which may refer to energy poverty. measures to protect vulnerable consumers may include , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection to such customers in critical times. ### member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers , and shall , in particular , protect vulnerable customers. in this context , each member state shall define the concept of vulnerable customers which shall refer to energy poverty. where member states fail to define energy poverty according to the provision in eed (recast xx) they shall employ the definition agreed therein. measures to protect vulnerable consumers shall include , inter alia , to the prohibition of disconnection to such customers in critical times , and in all cases during winter times . the concept of vulnerable customers shall at least include income levels , the share of energy expenditure of disposable income , the energy efficiency of homes , critical dependence on gas equipment for health reasons , and age. member states shall ensure that rights and obligations linked to vulnerable customers are applied.


### in particular , member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers in remote areas who are connected to the natural gas or hydrogen systems. member states may appoint a supplier of last resort for household customers , and , where member states deem it to be appropriate , small enterprises considered to be vulnerable customers connected to the gas system.. they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms. ### in particular , member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers in remote areas who are already connected to the natural gas system .member states shall appoint a supplier of last resort for household customers considered to be vulnerable customers connected to the gas system. according to relevant provisions of this directive , consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms shall be always ensured.


### in particular , member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers in remote areas who are connected to the natural gas or hydrogen systems. member states may appoint a supplier of last resort for household customers , and , where member states deem it to be appropriate , small enterprises considered to be vulnerable customers connected to the gas system.. they shall ensure high levels of consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms. ### in particular , member states shall take appropriate measures to protect final customers in remote areas who are already connected to the natural gas system. member states shall appoint a supplier of last resort for household customers considered to be vulnerable customers connected to the gas system. according to relevant provisions of this directive , consumer protection , particularly with respect to transparency regarding contractual terms and conditions , general information and dispute settlement mechanisms shall be always ensured. social tariffs and supplier of last resort tariffs for vulnerable or energy poor customers shall not be higher than the lowest market price.


### 2. the provisions of this directive shall not prevent the conclusion of long-term contracts for renewable and low carbon gases in so far as they comply with union competition rules and contribute to decarbonisation. no long-term contracts for supply of unabated fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2049 . ### 2. the provisions of this directive shall not prevent the conclusion of long-term contracts for renewable and low carbon gases in so far as they comply with union competition rules and contribute to decarbonisation. no long-term contracts for supply of fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2035 .


### 2. the provisions of this directive shall not prevent the conclusion of long-term contracts for renewable and low carbon gases in so far as they comply with union competition rules and contribute to decarbonisation. no long-term contracts for supply of unabated fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2049 . ### 2. the provisions of this directive shall not prevent the conclusion of long-term contracts for renewable gases in so far as they comply with union competition rules and contribute to decarbonisation. no long-term contracts for supply of fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2035 .


### ensuring that customers benefit through the efficient functioning of their national market , promoting effective competition and helping to ensure consumer protection in close cooperation with relevant consumer protection authorities ; ### ensuring that customers benefit through the efficient functioning of their national market , promoting effective competition and ensure high-level of consumer protection in consultation with relevant consumer protection authorities ;


### ensuring that customers benefit through the efficient functioning of their national market , promoting effective competition and helping to ensure consumer protection in close cooperation with relevant consumer protection authorities ; ### ensuring that customers benefit through the efficient functioning of their national market , promoting effective competition and helping to ensure a high level of consumer protection in close cooperation with relevant consumer protection authorities ;


### respecting contractual freedom with regard to long-term contracts provided that they are compatible with union law and consistent with union policies and provided they contribute to decarbonisation objectives. no long-term contracts for supply of unabated fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2049 ; ### respecting contractual freedom with regard to long-term contracts provided that they are compatible with union law and consistent with union policies and provided they contribute to decarbonisation objectives. no long-term contracts for supply of fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2035;


### respecting contractual freedom with regard to long-term contracts provided that they are compatible with union law and consistent with union policies and provided they contribute to decarbonisation objectives. no long-term contracts for supply of unabated fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2049 ; ### respecting contractual freedom with regard to long-term contracts provided that they are compatible with union law and consistent with union policies and provided they contribute to decarbonisation objectives. no long-term contracts for supply of unabated fossil gas shall be concluded with a duration beyond the end of year 2035 ;


### helping to ensure , together with other relevant authorities , that the consumer protection measures , including those set out in annex i , are effective and enforced; ### ensure , together with other relevant authorities , that the consumer protection measures , including those set out in annex i , are effective and enforced through proper monitoring and reporting. in light of consumer interests , the monitoring shall particularly assess:


### monitoring the implementation of rules relating to the roles and responsibilities of transmission system operators , distribution system operators , hydrogen network operators , suppliers and customers and other market parties pursuant to [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx] ; ### monitoring the strict implementation of rules relating to the roles and responsibilities of transmission system operators , distribution system operators , hydrogen network operators , suppliers and customers and other market parties pursuant to [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx] including rules requiring network operators to maintain separate regulated asset bases for gas , electricity and hydrogen assets and ensuring that financial transfers between different regulated asset bases do not take place;


### monitoring the implementation of rules relating to the roles and responsibilities of transmission system operators , distribution system operators , hydrogen network operators , suppliers and customers and other market parties pursuant to [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx] ; ### monitoring the strict implementation of rules relating to the roles and responsibilities of transmission system operators , distribution system operators , hydrogen network operators , suppliers and customers and other market parties pursuant to [recast gas regulation as proposed in com(2021) xxx]including rules requiring network operators to maintain separate regulated asset bases for gas , electricity and hydrogen assets and ensuring that financial transfers between different regulated asset bases do not take place ;


### (70) ‘citizen energy community’ means a legal entity that: ### (70) ‘renewable energy community’ means renewable energy community as defined in directive (eu) 2018/2001 , article 2 , point (16) ;


### is based on voluntary and open participation and is effectively controlled by members or shareholders that are natural persons , local authorities , including municipalities , or small enterprises; ### deleted


### has for its primary purpose to provide environmental , economic or social community benefits to its members or shareholders or to the local areas where it operates rather than to generate financial profits; and ### deleted


### engages in production , distribution , supply , consumption , or storage of renewable gas in the natural gas system , or provides energy efficiency services or maintenance services to its members or shareholders; ### deleted


### 1. suppliers shall be free to determine the price at which they supply gases to customers. member states shall take appropriate actions to ensure effective competition between suppliers. ### 1. suppliers shall be free to determine the price at which they supply gases to customers. member states shall take appropriate actions to ensure effective competition between suppliers , as well as ensure a level playing field between gases , electricity and thermal renewables , and to address undue discrimination between final customers.


### 4. public interventions in the price setting for the supply of natural gas shall: ### deleted


### 5. any member state applying public interventions in the price setting for the supply of natural gas in accordance with paragraph 3 of this article shall also comply with of article 3(3) , point (d) and with article 24 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , regardless of whether the member state concerned has a significant number of households in energy poverty. ### 5. any member state applying public interventions in the price setting for the supply of natural gas at the date of [entry into force of this directive] shall cede to apply them by [transposition of this directive] and also comply with of article 3(3) , point (d) and with article 24 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999. when the member state concerned has households in energy poverty , and in addition to paragraph 2 of this article , an adequate regulatory and financial support framework shall be in place to effectively address energy poverty and vulnerabilities to energy poverty prior to the removal of public interventions in the price setting. the support framework shall comprise policies such as social measures , financial and administrative support to invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies , provision of decent and affordable social housing , and availability of rental housing complying with minimum energy performance standards , as well as access to information and advice.


### 6. for the purpose of a transition period to establish effective competition for natural gas supply contracts between suppliers , and to achieve fully effective market-based retail pricing of gas in accordance with paragraph 1 , member states may apply public interventions in the price setting for the supply of natural gas to household customers and to microenterprises that do not benefit from public interventions pursuant to paragraph 3. ### deleted


### 7. public interventions pursuant to paragraph 6 shall comply with the criteria set out in paragraph 4 and shall: ### deleted


### 8. member states shall notify the measures taken in accordance with paragraphs 3 and 6 to the commission within one month after their adoption and may apply them immediately. the notification shall be accompanied by an explanation of why other instruments were not sufficient to achieve the objective pursued , of how the requirements set out in paragraphs 4 and 7 are fulfilled and of the effects of the notified measures on competition. the notification shall describe the scope of the beneficiaries , the duration of the measures and the number of household customers affected by the measures , and shall explain how the regulated prices have been determined. ### deleted


### 9. from 15 march 2025 , and every two years thereafter , as part of the integrated national energy and climate progress reports , member states shall submit reports to the commission on the implementation of this article , the necessity and proportionality of public interventions under this article , and an assessment of the progress towards achieving effective competition between suppliers and the transition to market-based prices. member states that apply regulated prices in accordance with paragraph 6 shall report on the compliance with the conditions set out in paragraph 7 , including on compliance by suppliers that are required to apply such interventions , as well as on the impact of regulated prices on the finances of those suppliers. ### deleted


### 10. the commission shall review and submit a report to the european parliament and to the council on the implementation of this article for the purpose of achieving market-based retail pricing of natural gas , together with or followed by a legislative proposal , if appropriate. this report may be combined with the report on the implementation of article 5 of directive (eu) 2019/944. that legislative proposal may include an end date for regulated prices. ### deleted


### 1. member states shall ensure , on the basis of their institutional organisation and with due regard to the principle of subsidiarity , that , without prejudice to paragraph 2 , natural gas and hydrogen undertakings are operated in accordance with the principles of this directive with a view to achieving a competitive , secure and environmentally sustainable market in gases , and shall not discriminate between those undertakings as regards their rights or obligations. ### 1. member states shall ensure , on the basis of their institutional organisation and with due regard to the principle of subsidiarity , that , without prejudice to paragraph 2 , natural gas and hydrogen undertakings are operated in accordance with the principles of this directive with a view to achieving a competitive , secure and environmentally sustainable market in gases , and shall not discriminate between those undertakings as regards their rights or obligations and not discriminate against undertakings fulfilling the same services on a renewable basis or through direct renewable electrification.


### 2. having full regard to the relevant provisions of the tfeu , in particular article 106 thereof , member states may impose on natural gas and hydrogen undertakings , in the general economic interest , public service obligations which may relate to security , including security of supply , regularity , and quality of supplies , and environmental protection , including energy efficiency , energy from renewable sources and climate protection. such obligations shall be clearly defined , transparent , non-discriminatory , verifiable and shall guarantee equality of access for natural gas undertakings and hydrogen undertakings of the union to national consumers. ### 2. having full regard to the relevant provisions of the tfeu , in particular article 106 thereof , member states may impose on natural gas and hydrogen undertakings , in the general economic interest , public service obligations which may relate to security , including security of supply , regularity , and quality of supplies , and environmental protection , including energy efficiency , energy from renewable sources and climate protection , including decommissioning of assets and mandates to swift away from or reduce gas consumption. such obligations shall be clearly defined , transparent , non-discriminatory , verifiable and shall guarantee equality of access for natural gas undertakings and hydrogen undertakings of the union to national consumers.