The government must not allow energy companies to blame network costs for skyrocketing bills this winter, according to Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore.
Deputy Whitmore, who is the party’s energy spokesperson, said:
“What we’re seeing now is energy companies putting up their prices by significant amounts, citing infrastructure and network security costs for these scandalous increases.
“In a notice to customers, one company, Energia, claimed that price rises due to come into effect on October 9 are unavoidable because of ongoing substantial increases in electricity system operator and network charges.
“However, the average €200 annual increase customers will face is way beyond the additional cost that energy companies are incurring. I therefore find it highly offensive that they are relying on such a flimsy excuse to justify extortionate price hikes.
“When I raised the issue at this week’s Oireachtas Climate Committee, I received a very weak response from the Commission of Regulation of Utilities, who simply confirmed that they meet with energy companies on a quarterly basis and query the reasons for price changes.
“Minister Darragh O’Brien is meeting with the energy companies today to discuss ongoing price rises. But this should be no cause for optimism – efforts by the previous government to curb soaring energy bills by engaging with the sector failed to make any difference.
“With more than 300,000 households in arrears on their electricity bills, further price rises will plunge already struggling energy customers deeper into crisis this winter.
“We need proper oversight and an end to light-touch regulation to stop the endless march of unfair price increases.”
September 26, 2025