Ring your supplier first and ask for a payment plan, then MABS on 0818 07 2000 for free advice. The Community Welfare Service can help with an Additional Needs Payment.
Quick facts
- Winter
- No disconnections for arrears
- Priority register
- Never disconnected
- Before disconnecting
- At least 4 contact attempts
- Payment plan
- Suppliers must help
- VAT on energy
- 9% until 31 December 2030
- Free advice
- MABS
Your protections
"Customers having problems paying their bills cannot be disconnected during the winter months." The same applies to gas. "Vulnerable customers who are registered as priority services customers cannot be disconnected at any time." Register as a priority customer if you rely on electrically powered medical equipment.
"Suppliers must help you if you are in genuine financial difficulty. They must make at least 4 attempts to contact you before they disconnect your electricity."
Money that can help
- Household Benefits Package: an electricity or gas allowance from 70, or earlier in some cases
- Fuel Allowance. "If you are 66 or over, you don't need a qualifying payment to qualify for Fuel Allowance."
- "The Additional Needs Payment can help you with an expense that you cannot pay from your weekly income."
- Free, confidential advice from MABS
Cutting the bill
The 9% VAT rate on energy stays: "It was announced in Budget 2026 that the reduced rate is extended until 31 December 2030." Send your own meter readings to avoid estimated bills, and ask for a smart meter. "There is no upfront charge to have a smart meter installed." Switching supplier can also cut the bill.
Common questions
Can my electricity be cut off in winter in Ireland?
No, not for arrears. Customers having problems paying can't be disconnected during the winter months.
Who can never be disconnected?
Vulnerable customers registered as priority services customers, such as people who depend on electrically powered medical equipment.
What must my supplier do before disconnecting me?
Help you if you're in genuine financial difficulty, and make at least 4 attempts to contact you.
Who can help me with energy arrears?
Your supplier (for a payment plan), MABS, and the Community Welfare Service for an Additional Needs Payment.