In July 2008, GRTgaz, a 100% subsidiary of the GDF Suez group, entrusted the turnkey construction of two new natural gas compression stations in the towns of Fontenay-Mauvoisin (Yvelines) and Saint-Avit (Drôme).

The Fontenay-Mauvoisin and Saint-Avit stations each have two 11 MW compressors with electric motors. This new form of generation contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, specifically CO2 and nitrogen oxides (NOx).

The compressor stations are located at regular intervals (every 120 – 150 km) on the gas pipelines to compensate for pressure losses due to the displacement of gas through the pipelines. They enable the gas transport network to be used in the best technical and economic conditions.