Dublin: The number of households struggling to pay electricity and gas bills has risen sharply, with new figures from the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU) showing that approximately 320,000 electricity customers are now in arrears — an increase of more than 20% compared to the previous year.
More than 50,000 additional consumers have fallen behind on their energy bills since December 2024, underscoring the continuing cost-of-living pressures facing households nationwide. The total number of electricity customers in arrears rose from 303,000 in November to 320,000 in December — a 5% monthly increase.
In December last year, 14% of domestic electricity customers were unable to pay their bills, while 26% of domestic gas customers were in arrears. Electricity arrears increased by 10% year-on-year, although gas arrears recorded a slight decline of 1%, according to CRU data.
The surge in unpaid bills has drawn criticism following the withdrawal of universal energy credits, which were introduced after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to cushion households against soaring energy costs. The credits were discontinued in the most recent budget.
Sinn Féin Blames Withdrawal of Energy Credits
Piers Doherty, finance spokesperson for Sinn Féin, said the rise in arrears was a direct consequence of the government’s decision to end energy credits and prioritise corporate supports. He described the situation as “a stain on the Government’s record” and called for the immediate introduction of a new cost-of-living package that would include targeted energy credits.
Doherty also urged stronger government intervention to curb what he described as excessive pricing and profiteering by energy companies, arguing that one in seven households is now unable to pay electricity bills and one in four families is struggling with gas costs.
Government Pledges Targeted Support
Finance Minister and Tánaiste Simon Harris rejected claims that ending universal energy credits was a mistake, stating that the Government is committed to providing targeted assistance to those most in need.
Harris confirmed that support measures are being developed for the 320,000 households in electricity arrears and said the government is acting with urgency to direct help where it is required most.
He noted that the fuel allowance scheme has been expanded, with 50,000 additional families set to receive payments next month. A further 50,000 recipients of the Working Family Payment will become eligible for the allowance in March. Currently, around 460,000 people in Ireland receive the fuel allowance, and payment rates have recently been increased.
The minister maintained that targeted supports are more effective than universal credits in addressing hardship.
Government Preparing Long-Term Energy Measures
Housing Minister James Browne acknowledged the financial strain facing households and said the government is working on medium- and long-term strategies to permanently reduce energy costs.
He pointed to the interim findings of the Government’s Energy Affordability Action Taskforce, adding that a final report outlining further measures is expected shortly.
The government’s objective, Browne said, is to ensure households can manage energy costs sustainably and live without financial stress.
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