The Utility Regulator is issuing our decision to maintain the seasonal multiplier factors, which are applied to non-annual capacity bookings in the postalised tariff, for a further year from 1 October 2026.
The annual consultation on these factors was published on 30 March 2026, as required by EU Regulation 2017/460, the Network Code on Harmonised Transmission Tariff Structures for Gas (TAR NC), as amended following the EU Exit.
Seasonal multiplier factors apply to non-annual entry gas capacity products, for example, monthly or daily capacity bookings, by applying a factor which either increases or decreases the relevant proportion of the annual tariff.
The seasonal factors were introduced to reflect the seasonality of gas flows during the year and to incentivise suppliers to make more use of the network in the summer and shift demand away from the winter peak.
The multiplier factor incentivises the use of annual capacity. The tariff for a non-annual capacity product is calculated by multiplying the annual tariff by the appropriate seasonal multiplier factor. The seasonal multiplier factors have been included in the gas transmission charging regime since October 2015.
We received four responses to the consultation:
- Flogas.
- Gas Market Operator Northern Ireland (GMO NI).
- Gas Networks Ireland (GNI (UK)).
- Mutual Energy Limited (MEL).
The respondents were supportive of the proposal to maintain the current factors, as they meet the requirements of EU Regulation and continue the alignment with RoI. Following the consideration of the responses received, we have decided to maintain them for gas year 2026/2027.
The respondents were also supportive of our intention to work alongside the Commission for Regulation of Utilities in the coming years to undertake a review of the seasonal factors going forward.
These factors continue to meet the requirements of the TAR NC.
Copies of all documents can be made available in large print, Braille, audio cassette and a variety of relevant minority languages if required.