Record numbers behind on bills
The number of people behind on their electricity bills has soared to a record high since the Government energy credits ended, new figures show.
Those in arrears jumped 55,000 to nearly 320,000 – an increase of more than 20% on a year ago.
The end of the €250 electricity credits was a double-whammy for families as it came at the same time as power prices rose by up to 15%.
As well as the jump in electricity arrears, the number of gas customers behind with their bills is up almost 10% to 179,000.
Daragh Cassidy, of utility price comparison website Bonkers.ie, said: “These figures are obviously concerning.
“In the lead-up to this winter, the Government removed the payment of the €250 electricity credit while at the same time several suppliers hiked their prices by between 10 and 15% on average.
“This has clearly been a struggle for many as the number of households behind on their electricity bills has now shot up to almost 320,000 – a record high.
“The numbers behind on their gas bills have also increased and remain close to a record high at 26% of households.”
Mr Cassidy added: “For those who can, I’d highly recommend switching as savings of several hundred euro can be made.”
Labour Party energy spokesman Ciarán Ahern said the Government “isn’t showing any urgency towards resolving the cost-of-living crisis particularly when it pertains to energy bills”.
A spokesman for the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment said: “The Government acknowledges the pressure that high energy costs place on households and businesses.
“Energy affordability is a priority for this Government.
Labour Party energy spokesman Ciarán Ahern said the Government “isn’t showing any urgency towards resolving the cost-of-living crisis particularly when it pertains to energy bills”. Photograph: Leah Farrell / © RollingNews.ie
“The Commission for Regulation of Utilities strongly encourages anyone who is struggling with their bill to engage with their supplier.
“Suppliers will not disconnect customers that engage with them.”
