Your Taxes: A How-To

Understanding your electricity and gas bill can help you manage costs and avoid surprises. Here’s a simple guide to what each section means and how to spot ways to save money.

1. Reading Your Bill

Every bill has key details that show what you are paying for.

Important Sections:

• Account Details – Your name, address, and customer number.
• Billing Period – The dates the bill covers.
• Meter Readings – Your energy usage, either estimated (E) or actual (A).
• Energy Used – Measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) for electricity and cubic meters for gas.
• Unit Rate – The price per kWh or cubic meter.
• Standing Charge – A fixed fee for maintaining the supply.
• VAT – Value-added tax (13.5%) added to your total.
• Total Amount Due – The final bill amount, including all charges.

If you see an “E” next to your meter reading, it means the supplier has estimated your usage. To get an accurate bill, submit a meter reading yourself.

2. How Your Energy Use is Calculated

Your bill is based on how much energy you use, multiplied by the unit rate.

For example, if you used 500 kWh of electricity at €0.40 per kWh, your energy cost would be €200 before other charges.

Gas usage is measured in cubic meters and converted to kWh using a formula on your bill.

3. Understanding Tariffs and Discounts

Your energy supplier may offer different plans. Common tariff types include:

• Standard Rate – No discounts, the most expensive option.
• Discounted Tariffs – Lower rates for a fixed period, often for new customers.
• Time-of-Use Tariffs – Cheaper rates at night (e.g., NightSaver meters).

Check if you are on the best plan. If your discount has expired, switching plans could save you money.

4. Extra Charges & Government Levies

Your bill includes government-mandated charges:

• PSO Levy (Public Service Obligation) – A charge to support renewable energy.
• Carbon Tax (on Gas Bills) – A tax on fossil fuel usage.
• Regulatory Charges – Fees to maintain the energy system.

While these cannot be avoided, reducing your energy use can lower their impact.

5. Ways to Save on Your Bill

There are a few ways to cut costs:

• Compare Suppliers – Switching providers can lead to better deals.
• Submit Meter Readings – Avoid estimated bills that may be too high.
• Use Less Energy – Turn off appliances, lower heating, and use energy-efficient devices.
• Check Discounts – Some suppliers offer discounts for direct debit or online billing.

Final Thoughts

Your electricity and gas bill may seem complicated, but understanding it helps you take control of your costs. Always check your tariff, compare suppliers, and be mindful of your energy usage.

Need help switching plans? Many comparison websites, like Bonkers.ie, can find you the best deal.

Energy costs are a concern for many Irish households and businesses. Thankfully, several grants and supports are available to help reduce energy bills and improve efficiency. This guide explains what’s available and how to apply.

1. SEAI Home Energy Grants

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) provides grants for home energy upgrades. These help improve insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy use.

Popular grants include:

• Insulation Grants – Covering attic, wall, and floor insulation.
• Heat Pump Systems – Funding for switching to energy-efficient heating.
• Solar PV Panels – Grants for installing solar panels to generate electricity.
• Boiler and Heating Controls – Support for upgrading heating systems.

To qualify, you must own a home built before 2011 (for insulation/heating) or before 2021 (for solar panels).

2. Free Energy Upgrades for Low-Income Households

The Warmer Homes Scheme provides free energy upgrades for those on certain social welfare payments. Upgrades may include insulation, heating system improvements, and draft-proofing.

Eligible applicants must receive payments such as:

• Fuel Allowance
• Working Family Payment
• One-Parent Family Payment
• Domiciliary Care Allowance

This scheme is fully funded, meaning homeowners don’t pay for the work.

3. Business Energy Grants

Businesses can also get support to reduce their energy costs. The SEAI offers grants for:

• Solar Panels – Funding for businesses installing solar PV systems.
• Energy Audits – Financial support to assess energy use and find savings.
• Lighting Upgrades – Grants for switching to energy-efficient LED lighting.

Some grants cover up to 30% of the costs, helping businesses become more sustainable.

4. Electric Vehicle (EV) Grants

The EV Grant Scheme supports the purchase of electric vehicles. Grants are available for private buyers, businesses, and taxi drivers.

• Up to €3,500 for a new private EV.
• Home Charger Grant – Up to €600 for installing a home EV charger.
• Commercial EV Grant – Funding for businesses switching to electric vans or taxis.

SEAI manages the grants, and applications can be made online.

5. The Energy Poverty Scheme

The government provides additional support for those struggling with energy bills. This includes:

• Fuel Allowance – A weekly payment for low-income households during winter.
• Budgeting Advice – Help with managing energy costs.
• Disconnections Protection – Support for those unable to pay bills.

Local organisations, such as MABS (Money Advice & Budgeting Service), offer guidance for people in financial difficulty.

Summary

Ireland has a range of energy grants and supports for homeowners, businesses, and those in need. SEAI grants help with home insulation, solar panels, and heat pumps. Low-income households may qualify for free upgrades. Businesses can get funding for energy-efficient upgrades. EV buyers can receive grants for vehicles and chargers. Additional support exists for those facing energy poverty.

Checking eligibility and applying early can help you save money and improve energy efficiency. Visit www.seai.ie for more details.

Falling behind on your energy bills can be stressful. But don’t panic—there are steps you can take to manage the situation and get back on track.

1. Don’t Panic!

Being in arrears doesn’t mean your energy will be cut off immediately. Energy suppliers in Ireland must follow strict rules before disconnecting a customer. They will usually try to work out a payment plan with you first.

If you receive a disconnection notice, contact your supplier immediately. Ignoring the issue will only make it worse.

2. Contact MABS

The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) provides free and confidential help to people struggling with bills. They can:

• Help you budget for your energy costs.
• Negotiate with your supplier on your behalf.
• Advise you on grants or supports you may be entitled to.

You can contact MABS by calling 0818 07 2000 or visiting www.mabs.ie.

3. Contact the CRU

The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) protects energy customers in Ireland. If you can’t reach an agreement with your supplier, the CRU may be able to help.

They ensure that suppliers offer:

• Payment plans for customers in arrears.
• Prepay meters as an alternative to disconnection.
• Protection for vulnerable customers (elderly, ill, or on medical devices).

You can contact the CRU at 1800 404 404 or visit www.cru.ie.

4. Talk to Your Supplier

Your supplier must offer you a reasonable repayment plan if you’re struggling. Options include:

• Spreading the cost over several months.
• Paying a little extra each week to reduce the arrears.
• Switching to prepay energy if it suits your situation.

If your supplier refuses to help, contact the CRU for assistance.

5. Summary

If you’re in energy arrears, take action now:

1. Don’t panic – Suppliers can’t cut you off immediately.
2. Contact MABS for free budgeting advice.
3. Call the CRU if your supplier won’t cooperate.
4. Work with your supplier to set up a payment plan.

There’s help available—don’t wait until the problem gets worse. If you need guidance, reach out to MABS or the CRU today.

Ireland has a competitive energy market with several suppliers offering electricity and gas plans. Each provider has its own pricing, discounts, and green energy options. This guide explains the major suppliers in Ireland.

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1. SSE Airtricity

SSE Airtricity is one of Ireland’s leading energy suppliers. They provide both electricity and gas to homes and businesses.

• Green Energy – SSE Airtricity invests in wind energy and offers renewable electricity plans.
• Discounts – They offer discounts for new customers, especially those paying by direct debit.
• Online Account Management – Customers can track their usage and bills online.

SSE Airtricity is a well-known provider for customers looking for competitive rates and green energy options.

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2. Electric Ireland

Electric Ireland is the largest energy supplier in Ireland. It is the retail arm of ESB and serves both residential and business customers.

• Standard Pricing – Their rates are competitive, but they often have fewer discounts than smaller suppliers.
• Loyalty Discounts – They offer rewards for long-term customers.
• Customer Service – As the biggest supplier, they have a strong reputation for support and reliability.

Electric Ireland is a popular choice for customers who prefer a well-established provider with strong service.

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3. Bord Gáis Energy

Bord Gáis Energy supplies both electricity and gas. Originally the national gas company, it is now owned by Centrica, a UK-based energy company.

• Dual Fuel Discounts – Customers who take both gas and electricity can get lower prices.
• Boiler Services – They offer boiler maintenance and repair plans.
• Renewable Energy – They have some green energy options but are not fully renewable.

Bord Gáis Energy is a strong choice for households using both gas and electricity.

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4. Energia

Energia is known for its focus on renewable energy. It provides 100% green electricity and is popular among environmentally conscious customers.

• Renewable Electricity – Energia sources power from wind farms across Ireland.
• Competitive Pricing – They often offer lower rates than the bigger suppliers.
• Business Energy – Many Irish businesses use Energia due to their pricing and renewable focus.

Energia is a great option for customers looking for green energy at competitive rates.

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5. Yuno Energy

Yuno Energy is a new supplier in the Irish market. They aim to offer simple, transparent pricing with no long-term contracts.

• No Exit Fees – Customers can switch at any time.
• Competitive Rates – Yuno focuses on keeping costs low.
• Digital-First Service – Most account management is done online.

Yuno Energy is a good option for customers who want flexibility and straightforward pricing.

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Summary

Ireland has a range of energy suppliers, each with different benefits.

• SSE Airtricity – Renewable energy and competitive discounts.
• Electric Ireland – Largest supplier with a strong reputation.
• Bord Gáis Energy – Great for gas and electricity bundles.
• Energia – 100% green energy at good prices.
• Yuno Energy – Flexible contracts and simple pricing.

To get the best deal, compare offers, check discounts, and consider switching suppliers regularly.

Micro-generation allows homeowners to produce their own electricity or heat. This can lower energy bills and reduce reliance on the grid. Here’s a simple guide to the main options available in Ireland.

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1. Solar Panels for Heating Water

Solar thermal panels use sunlight to heat water. They don’t generate electricity but provide hot water for taps and heating systems.

• Best suited for homes with high hot water usage.
• Works best with a hot water cylinder.
• Can cover up to 60% of your hot water needs annually.
• Grants available from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

Solar water heating is a great way to cut gas or oil use for heating water.

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2. Solar PV: Generating Your Own Electricity

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity.

• They generate free electricity during daylight hours.
• Any excess can be stored in a battery or sent back to the grid.
• They work even on cloudy days, though output is lower.
• SEAI grants are available to help with installation costs.

Installing 4-6 panels can significantly reduce electricity bills.

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3. Heat Pumps: Efficient Home Heating

Heat pumps provide efficient heating by extracting heat from the air, ground, or water.

• Uses electricity but is 3-4 times more efficient than standard heating.
• Ideal for well-insulated homes.
• Can replace oil, gas, or electric heating systems.
• Grants of up to €6,500 available from SEAI.

Heat pumps work best in homes with good insulation and a high Building Energy Rating (BER).

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4. Improve Your BER Rating

A Building Energy Rating (BER) measures how energy-efficient your home is.

• Rated from A (best) to G (worst).
• Better ratings mean lower heating costs.
• Ways to improve:
  • Insulation (attic, walls, floors).
  • Solar panels or heat pumps.
  • Energy-efficient windows and doors.

A good BER increases your home’s value and reduces energy bills.

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5. Selling Energy Back to the Grid

If you generate more electricity than you use, you can sell it to the grid under the Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS).

• Payments are tax-free up to €200 per year.
• You need a smart meter to measure exported energy.
• Most major suppliers offer feed-in tariffs.

This means you get paid for excess energy your solar panels generate.

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Summary

Micro-generation is a great way to reduce energy costs and reliance on fossil fuels.

• Solar panels can heat water or generate electricity.
• Heat pumps provide efficient home heating.
• Improving your BER saves money in the long run.
• Selling excess energy back to the grid offers extra savings.

Government grants make these technologies more affordable. Now is a great time to invest in a greener, more energy-efficient home!

Energy prices in Ireland can be high, but there are ways to cut costs. Many households overpay because they don’t check their plans or upgrade their homes. Here’s how to save money on your energy bills.

1. Renew Every 12 Months

Energy suppliers offer discounts for new customers. These discounts usually last 12 months.

If you stay on the same plan after a year, you will likely be moved to a higher standard rate. To avoid this, compare offers and switch suppliers every year.

2. Pick the Best Plan

Not all plans are the same. Some suppliers offer:

• Discounted unit rates
• Lower standing charges
• Fixed rates that protect you from price hikes

Use comparison websites like myBillHero.ie to find the cheapest plan for your usage.

3. Understand Your Bill

Your energy bill has key charges:

• Unit Rate – The price per kWh of electricity or gas you use.
• Standing Charge – A daily fee for being connected.
• VAT – Charged at 9% on your total bill.

Some plans may have hidden fees. Always check the full price per year before signing up.

4. Monitor the Market

Energy prices go up and down. Some suppliers lower rates to attract customers. Others increase prices when wholesale costs rise.

Keep an eye on news about energy prices and switch when a better deal appears. If rates are expected to rise, consider a fixed-rate plan to lock in current prices.

5. Upgrade Your Home for Microgeneration

The Irish government supports microgeneration, allowing households to produce their own electricity with solar panels.

If you generate extra energy, you can sell it back to the grid under the Microgeneration Support Scheme (MSS). This can reduce your bills and even earn you money.

Grants are available from the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) to help with the cost of solar panels and home energy upgrades.

Summary

• Switch suppliers every 12 months to avoid higher rates.
• Choose a plan with the best discount and lowest standing charge.
• Learn how to read your bill so you don’t overpay.
• Watch the market and switch when prices drop.
• Consider solar panels to reduce costs and sell power back.

Making these changes can cut your energy costs without sacrificing comfort. Need help picking a plan? Check comparison sites or talk to an energy expert.