France’s Heating Bill Anxiety Deepens as Households Cut Back This Autumn

French households struggle with rising heating costs this autumn, Digi Mart USA News (Roubaix, Hauts-de-France, France): On Tuesday, November 10, 2026, temperatures in the Hauts-de-France region were dropping toward 0°C. France 3 Régions spoke with residents of the Nord department who are trying every day to limit their heating bills, and some who are giving up heat altogether.

On Monday, November 9, 2026, at the Roubaix market, residents wore hats and gloves in temperatures of barely two degrees. Heating costs were a constant topic of conversation.

Chantal, who heats with fuel oil, said she had spent 3,000 euros on heating and did not have enough left for the winter. She said that last year fuel oil cost 1.20 euros per liter, while it now costs 2 euros, leaving her with less money for other purchases.

Faced with higher prices, residents are finding ways to save, starting with lowering their thermostats. One said she used to heat to about 21.5°C and now keeps it at 20°C at most.

Another said his system is set to 19°C for the entire winter, adding that heating has become a luxury. A third said she keeps the thermostat at 16°C at night and 18°C during the day and wears warm clothing.

According to the report, delaying the start of heating by 15 days in a 100-square-meter house would save between 105 and 130 euros, depending on the fuel used.

Christine, a retiree receiving 2,000 euros per month in pension for herself and her unemployed son, has had to accept such measures. To save money, she uses a supplementary radiator for only two hours a day, and the temperature inside her home is 16°C.

She said she is angry because she must go without after more than 45 years of work.

Although electricity rates have been temporarily frozen for the winter, experts fear gas prices could rise by about 5.8% in December, an average of 143 euros more per year for the 6 million households concerned.