Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
70. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his views on a matter (details supplied) in relation to cancer patients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9343/24]
View answerAs part of Budget 2024 Government approved a new tranche of emergency Electricity Credits which over 2.2 million households will benefit from - worth €450 in total per household. This is an emergency measure, having regard to the impact of the war In Ukraine on energy prices.
Three payments of €150 (including VAT) are being made between December 2023 and April 2024.
The payments are being applied to domestic electricity accounts, including those with Pay As You Go meters, which are subject to distribution use of system charges at the rate for urban domestic customers (DG1) or the rate for rural domestic customers (DG2).
In addition, vulnerable customers who are critically dependent on electrically powered equipment, cannot be disconnected for non-payment of account at any time. It is important that people who are in such situations contact their energy supplier to register with them as a vulnerable customer. Their energy supplier will then notify ESB Networks, which maintains a Vulnerable Customer Register.
Suppliers are also required to ensure that all registered vulnerable customers are on the most economic tariff available for their chosen payment method and billing format.
Under the Solar PV for medically vulnerable Scheme, grant support will be provided to over 3,000 customers on the priority services register to install solar PV systems at their homes, in order to meet some of their electricity requirements.
Any individual that is in need of additional support may apply for an Additional Needs Payment provided by the Department of Social Protection, who have a need for financial assistance. Every effort will be made to ensure that these vulnerable individuals in financial distress, and who qualify, receive an Additional Needs Payment on the same day or as soon as possible where it relates to electricity and heating expenses.
In addition, customers struggling with their bills are strongly encouraged to engage with their supplier, directly or through as third-party representative. Suppliers will not disconnect customers that continue to engage with them and suppliers have additional customers supports in place, including hardship funds. to meet costs of essentials such as energy.
