天然气省内管输价格机制新规出台 业内人士如何看对行业影响

Core Viewpoint - The core objective of the new guidelines is to establish a scientific, transparent, and efficient pricing mechanism for natural gas pipeline transportation, addressing long-standing issues such as inconsistent pricing mechanisms, poor cost transmission, and inefficient resource allocation in the industry [1][2]. Pricing Mechanism - The new guidelines specify that provincial natural gas pipeline transportation prices will transition from "one line one price" and "one enterprise one price" to either zonal pricing or a unified provincial price [2]. - The pricing will be determined based on "permitted costs plus reasonable returns," with the depreciation period for pipeline assets set at 40 years and the permitted return rate not exceeding the 10-year government bond yield plus 4 percentage points [2][3]. Impact on Costs - Industry analysts predict that the new regulations will lead to a decrease in provincial pipeline transportation fees, with permitted return rates around 6%, significantly lower than the 7%-8% rates for most cross-provincial transportation [3]. - The reduction in midstream transportation costs is expected to benefit downstream users directly, enhancing demand potential [3]. Market Dynamics - The guidelines encourage upstream gas suppliers to engage in direct sales with urban gas companies and large users, which is anticipated to stimulate competition and improve service quality in the midstream sector [4]. - The elimination of redundant supply chain segments is expected to lower transportation prices, thereby alleviating cost pressures on downstream users [3]. Demand Management - The new regulations are expected to invigorate the terminal gas market and enhance demand-side management for urban gas companies, allowing large users to bypass distribution channels and purchase gas directly from main pipelines [4]. - Urban gas companies may adopt value-added services and pricing strategies to retain customers in response to increased competition from direct purchases [4].