asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that in a recanvass of the Meathill and Drumcondrath areas, County Meath, the ESB has demanded a capital contribution totalling £2,295 from 16 applicants for supply; and whether he considers this charge to be excessive especially in view of the fact that an old age pensioner is being asked to pay £335.
Written Answer. - ESB Charges.
99.
I am informed by the ESB that terms for supply under the final phase of the rural electrification scheme have recently been quoted to applicants in Meathill rural area. The terms quoted to each applicant are based on the cost of extending supply to the applicants' premises and include a special service as well as the normal fixed charge.
The capital payments referred to by the Deputy apply in cases where the applicants were given the option of buying out their special service charges but they are under no obligation to avail of this offer.
In one case the applicant was quoted a capital contribution of £459.02. This payment is required to buy out part of the special service charge as the cost of extending supply to his premises is very high, in the region of £1,200.