asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether, in view of the fact that the practice of the Electricity Supply Board in continuing to charge meter rent in perpetuity for meters installed by them for their own purposes in the premises of electricity consumers, even though the consumer has long since paid for both the meter and its installation, is much resented by consumers, he will make representations to the Board with a view to arranging a system whereby over a period of time meter rent will be reduced and finally abolished for longterm consumers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - ESB Meter Rent.
13.
I am informed by the Electricity Supply Board that meter rent is charged to consumers on the two-part tariff only in respect of any meter which the consumer may require in excess of one. There is a small and diminishing number of consumers charged at flat rates and in these cases rental is charged in respect of each meter installed. These consumers may change to the two-part tariff on request.
Meter rents, where payable, continue while the apparatus is retained by the consumer. They are necessary to recoup the Board the annual capital and other charges arising from the installation of meters in consumers' premises. I do not propose to suggest to the Board that they should consider any change in the present system.