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Household Benefits Scheme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 February 2018

Thursday, 1 February 2018

Ceisteanna (335)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

335. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the steps she is taking to ensure that more companies other than just a company (details supplied) are allowed to deduct the free electricity allowance from their customers' bills; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5230/18]

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Freagraí scríofa

The electricity allowance is still given to customers as a monthly monetary credit on a customer’s electricity bill where they have a domestic account with Electric Ireland. This dates back to a time when its predecessor (ESB) was the only electricity supplier available.

My Department has been approached by some of the other electricity providers regarding the possibility of crediting the electricity allowance onto their customer’s bills, similar to Electric Ireland arrangement. However, providing the necessary secure ICT systems would prove costly both for each of the suppliers and the Department. Maintaining computerised links and accounts with the many companies now operating in the energy market would also place a substantial administrative burden on the Department.

Customers who want to purchase their electricity needs from other providers are given a cash payment. This allows them to easily switch to a company which best meets their individual electricity needs, giving them value for money. They can also draw down any remaining credit balance when switching provider. There are currently in excess of 123,000 customers on these cash payment arrangements.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

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