SNCF Réseau is planning to provide toll discounts to TGV operators who make stops at smaller train stations in France, pending approval from the transport regulatory authority.
SNCF Réseau has announced its intention to offer discounts on railway tolls for TGV operators that include stops at less frequented stations starting from mid-December 2026. Specifically, this proposal includes a 1% reduction for trains that stop at two designated stations aimed at regional development, and a 2% discount for three stops. The intention is to encourage greater accessibility and enhance service to smaller towns, which often struggle with less frequent train services.
The regulatory approval from the Autorité de régulation des transports (ART) is anticipated on Tuesday, which is essential for the implementation of this proposal. By mid-December 2027, the discount structure will expand, allowing for toll reductions ranging from 2% to 4%, depending on the number of small stations a train stops at. These incentives are particularly aimed at promoting regional connectivity and ensuring that smaller towns are not neglected in France's high-speed rail network.
This initiative reflects a broader strategy to boost use of rail services across the country, addressing the ongoing concerns of rural accessibility while maintaining the economic viability of TGV routes. The approach hopes to strike a balance between usage rates and operational costs for TGV operators, providing a sustainable model for enhancing the customer experience in less urbanized regions of France.
