Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 September 2022
93. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he or his Department has had further interaction with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities since its publication of proposed measures to tackle rising electricity costs; if he expects these proposals to be implemented on 1 October 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47407/22]
View answerOn the 25th of August, following engagement with customer representative groups, energy suppliers and network operators the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) announced enhanced consumer protection measures scheduled to come into effect in October, November and December: These measures include:
- Extended Disconnections Moratorium: Moratorium extended to three months and from 1 December 2022 until 28 February 2023 for all domestic customers.Vulnerable customers: Moratorium extended to six months from 1 October 2022 until 31 March 2023. It should be noted that vulnerable customers registered as being critically dependent on electrically powered assistive devices cannot be disconnected for reason of non-payment at any time and this protection remains in place. - Extended Debt Repayment Periods: Debt repayment plans will be extended to allow a minimum of 24 months for customers to repay debt. Customers may repay debt in a shorter period if they prefer. This is due for implementation on 1 November. - Reduced Debt Burden on Pay-As-You-Go Top-Ups: Reduction in the debt repayment level on Pay-As-You-Go meters from 25% to maximum 10% (i.e. a €20 vend would have €2 deducted to pay debt). This is due for implementation on 1 October. - Better Value for those on Financial Hardship Meters: All customers with a financial hardship meter to be placed on the cheapest tariff available from their supplier. This is due for implementation on 1 December.
- Promotion of Vulnerable Customer Register: Enhanced requirements on suppliers to actively promote the vulnerable customer register and the protections it offers. This due for implementation from 1 November 2022. My officials engage with the CRU on a regular basis and on a wide range of matters including consumer protection.
