Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 March 2026
115. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment the number of households currently assessed as being in energy poverty (reported as c. 550,000); the number in electricity bill arrears (over 320,000); and whether the Department will integrate a 'surplus energy credit' into the Household Benefits Package or Additional Needs Payments. [19716/26]
View answerHouseholds spending above 10% of total income on their energy needs (excluding energy for transport) are counted in the current measurement of energy poverty. In 2022, based on this measure, the ESRI estimated that the number of households at risk of energy poverty was. ?It should be noted that targeted measures to support households at risk of energy poverty are paid to a significant share of households. For example, Fuel Allowance has been expanded to benefit 470,000 households.
The most recent Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) figures on household consumers in arrears are for December 2025. This data shows that approximately 192,000 or 8% of electricity customers are in arrears greater than 90 days. 320,000 or 14% electricity customers are in arrears of any length. This level of arrears is obviously a concern.
The National Energy Affordability Taskforce was established last June to identify, assess and implement measures that will enhance energy affordability for households and businesses. The first report of the taskforce set out measures for consideration as part of the Budget 2026 process. Many of these options were reflected in budget decisions. Examples of targeted budget measures aimed at improving energy affordability include:
• the Fuel Allowance being increased by €5 per week to €38, supporting over 470,000 households who most require Government assistance to meet their energy costs;
• to directly support working families, the Fuel Allowance was extended to recipients of the Working Family Payment. This will benefit approximately 50,000 families;
• from September 2026, those who move from Disability Allowance or Blind Pension to employment will be able to retain the Fuel Allowance for 5 years; and
• record funding of €640 million has been allocated for Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland's residential and community energy upgrade schemes (including the Solar PV Scheme). This allocation will support the highest ever budget for the Warmer Homes Scheme which is targeted at households in energy poverty.
In addition, the VAT reduction (from 13.5% to 9%) on electricity and gas bills has been extended to the end of 2030, saving households up to €100 per year.
It is important to note that the Department of Social Protection can also provide support through the Additional Needs Payment to help households meet expenses, including those who face difficulties with fuel bills. A Heating Supplement may also be paid to assist people that have exceptional heating costs due to ill health, infirmity or a medical condition and are unable to meet those costs out of household income. The Heating Supplement can be paid throughout the full year.
There are also a range of CRU customer protections in place.
Changes to the Household Benefits Package and Additional Needs Payments are a matter for the Department of Social Protection.
