The European Commission has initiated proceedings against the German energy group, E.ON, and the French gas company, Gaz de France, in relation to suspected market sharing. In particular, the allegations concern supplies of natural gas transported over the MEGAL pipeline that is jointly owned by E.ON and Gaz de France. The initiation of proceedings against E.ON and Gaz de France arises from information obtained during the energy sector enquiry inspections carried out by the Commission in May 2006. The alleged infringements, which are thought to have been an attempt by the companies to protect their home markets, will be investigated in depth in the course of the proceedings.