Pa Daly
Question:72. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the reason Irish energy prices are so high compared to other EU states; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [72912/25]
View answerWednesday, 17 December 2025
Questions (72)
Written answers
The most recent Eurostat report on European energy prices, published in April 2025 for the second half of 2024, lists Ireland as having the fifth highest electricity prices in the EU. However, when adjusted for purchasing power parity, a more accurate reflection of costs as experienced by consumers across Europe, Ireland is far closer to the European average. In this accounting, Ireland ranks twelfth for household electricity prices.
There are several historic reasons for the level of electricity costs seen in Ireland. These reasons include a very dispersed population, an island location on the periphery of Europe, a low level of interconnection with European markets and a heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, particularly gas.
My Department has established a cross-Government National Energy Affordability Taskforce to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses, while delivering key renewable commitments and protecting security of supply and economic stability.
The taskforce has completed its first report, which set out measures for consideration as part of the Budget 2026 process. This report has been published on gov.ie, in advance of further analysis and the publication of the Energy Affordability Action Plan in 2026.