France's natural gas stocks are at "relatively reassuring" levels as winter approaches but the cost of filling storage tanks is rising as the war against Iran drags on, the country's energy regulator said on Wednesday. France, which imports 95% of its needs, can rely on a direct pipeline from Norway but nonetheless remains exposed to surging market prices, according to the country's energy regulator. Key points and original sources are listed below.

• France's natural gas stocks are at "relatively reassuring" levels as winter approaches but the cost of filling storage tanks is rising as the war against Iran drags on, the country's energy regulator said on Wednesday.S1

• France, which imports 95% of its needs, can rely on a direct pipeline from Norway but nonetheless remains exposed to surging market prices, according to the country's energy regulator.S2