asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware of the widespread discontent of consumers at the system of charging employed by the Electricity Supply Board for the supply of domestic current; and, if so, whether the Board have examined the matter with a view to abolishing the fixed-charge system and substituting a system based on consumption only.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - E.S.B. Charges System.
31.
I am not aware, as alleged by the Deputy, that there is any widespread discontent at the system of charging employed by the E.S.B. for the supply of domestic current. I am advised that the system of charging was adopted after careful consideration and that it is on the same basis as that generally in use in Britain and the Continent. It is not my intention to intervene in a matter which, under Section 59 of the Electricity (Supply) Act, 1927, is the sole responsibility of the Electricity Supply Board.
Does the Minister not think that the increase in the ground rent and in the unit charge for rural consumers is causing grave discontent? In many cases, as much as 10 per cent. of the householders have decided to throw out the E.S.B.
The question asked was in regard to the system. I understand from the E.S.B. they have had more complaints from people who are not on the two-part system and who would like to go on it. They were given the chance of going on it a number of years ago but they decided to remain on the flat rate. I understand from the E.S.B. they have had more complaints of that kind.
The basis of the charge is that everyone pays a minimum sum, covering the interest and sinking fund, on the installation of the power to their household or their industry, whichever it is, and for maintenance and depreciation. They pay a second charge for the amount of current consumed. It is really fairer in the circumstances to do that because different amounts of current are consumed by different people in different circumstances.
Is the Minister aware that a small rural consumer may be paying as much as the equivalent of 1/6d. per unit for his current when the number of units is divided into the total cost of the ground rent and unit charge, while the big consumer may get current for as little as three-halfpence per unit? Is that fair or just, that the small householder should have to pay for the big consumer?
It would be an impossibility to start arguing on individual cases; I am just giving the general basis. I should state also what the Deputy should know, that is, that rural electrification is at present subsidised by a capital grant for installation, and that it is further subsidised by the urban consumer.
Subsidised? They are running a loss of £880,000.