Ireland’s fuel poverty crisis after hike in energy prices
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TWO out of three cashstrapped householders are suffering “fuel poverty” after firms hiked their fees, a survey revealed yesterday.
One-third are facing “high” or “extreme” bill stress over the crippling costs, while 25% did not run heaters this winter.
More than 1,500 Irish people of all ages were quizzed in the One Big Switch poll showing the effect of bill hikes.
Campaign director David Liston said: “The majority of homes in Ireland are suffering from energy fuel poverty.
“Something that would have been unimaginable when the definition was first coined.
“What’s saddening is it doesn’t have to be this way.
“People need to stop accepting high energy prices as par for the course and do something about it themselves.”
Ireland has the second highest electricity prices in the EU excluding taxes.
Bord Gais Energy recently announced a €44 increase to electricity bills, while a hike of almost €19 will be added to gas bills from March 10
PROVIDERS
The company is the sixth provider in recent months to announce higher prices.
Energia increased its electricity, gas and dual fuel costs at the start of the year.
Prices soared by 5.5%, adding an average of €62 to yearly bills.
SSE Airtricity hiked its energy prices in December with the standard electricity price soaring by €61 annually.
Pinergy confirmed a 7.89% electricity price increase the same month, which will add about €66 to bills.
Other companies that confirmed cost surges includes Flogas and Panda Power.
The survey revealed 60% of people are “not receiving a discount” or “don’t know if they are” and just a fraction are availing of reductions, despite them being widely available.
Mr Liston said: “Three of the top four energy retailers in the market are offering discounts of over 20%, yet just 5% of the population are availing of them.
“People need to switch to discounted offers now.”