asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will make representations to the Electricity Supply Board to reduce the rental paid on valuation basis in rural areas by 33? per cent. in view of the fact that they are now unable to deliver the full supply of current for which the rental is paid, inasmuch as fire heaters are not allowed, current for water heating is reduced by 50 per cent., and current for all other purposes reduced by 25 per cent.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Electricity Charges.
I am not prepared to do as the Deputy suggests. The fixed charge based on valuation is designed to cover the fixed costs. These charges are totally independent of unit costs. The unit charge is designed to cover the running costs, i.e., fuel for generating, oil, transport and distribution costs. No matter how the unit cost is reduced, the fixed costs remain unaffected, and accordingly the fixed charge on the valuation must remain unaffected.