Diesel consumption in France.

In 2024, diesel consumption in France continues to show interesting trends. Here are the recent figures for the consumption of diesel and other petroleum products.

Diesel consumption in France: analysis of recent trends

Current and historical consumption

In France, diesel consumption remains significant despite a downward trend. In 2022, approximately 30.6 million tonnes of diesel were consumed, a decrease from 33.6 million tonnes recorded in 2018. This reduction illustrates a gradual change in consumption habits, although diesel remains predominant due to the large proportion of diesel vehicles in the French vehicle fleet.

On average, France consumes approximately 10 litres of diesel per second, which corresponds to an annual consumption of approximately 32.9 million tonnes. This high level of consumption is directly linked to the significant proportion of diesel vehicles in circulation, which supports the continued demand for this fuel.

Monthly evolution of consumption

In May 2024, the share of diesel in total road fuel consumption fell to 68.4%, a decrease of 2.1 percentage points compared to May 2023. Diesel deliveries totalled 4.045 million m³, down 3.4% compared to the previous year. In February 2024, the share of diesel had already decreased to 71.6%, a decrease of 2.2 percentage points compared to February 2023. Deliveries remained relatively stable, while unleaded premium fuels recorded a significant increase of 11.8% over the same period.

Cumulative trends over the first five months of 2024

For the first five months of 2024, diesel deliveries recorded a cumulative decrease of 2.5% compared to the same period in 2023. This decrease is contrasted by a notable increase of 8.3% in deliveries of unleaded premium gasoline. This change reflects a continuing trend towards a reduction in the use of diesel, in favor of alternative fuels.

General trends and total consumption

Overall, total consumption of petroleum products in France showed a slight decrease. In May 2024, total deliveries reached 4.493 million tons, down 1% compared to May 2023. Over a 12-month period, the decrease in consumption was 1.3%. This general decrease reflects a gradual transition towards more sustainable alternatives and a reduction in dependence on diesel, in response to efforts for a more environmentally friendly energy transition.

Diesel Consumption Forecast for 2024

Diesel consumption could reach around 700,000 cubic metres by the end of 2024, subject to changes in environmental policies and fuel price variations.

Factors influencing the decline in diesel consumption:

Alternative fuels: 8.3% increase in the consumption of premium unleaded petrol, indicating a shift towards less polluting fuels.
Environmental policies: Initiatives to reduce emissions and promote electric and hybrid vehicles are reducing demand for diesel.
Changing habits: Environmental awareness is encouraging more sustainable behaviour and reducing the use of diesel.
Economic factors: Fewer working days and the base effect of high deliveries in March 2023 are impacting consumption.
Climatic conditions: Mild weather is reducing demand for domestic fuel, indirectly influencing diesel consumption as the French heat less in this case.

Diesel consumption is decreasing, replaced by superfuels and supported by an energy transition towards sustainable alternatives.