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Electricity & gas · Ireland
Checked 2026-09-27

🤝 Is there help with energy costs in Ireland?

The short answer

Many countries have a social tariff, a discount or an allowance for people on a low income, and free advice on saving energy.

📜 The rules in Ireland

Help if money is tight

There is no social tariff, but welfare supports help: the Household Benefits Package electricity or gas allowance (mainly 70+) and Fuel Allowance for people on certain social welfare payments (or 66+). Apply through the Department of Social Protection.

Household Benefits Package / Fuel Allowance (welfare supports, not a tariff) 🔗 citizensinformation.ie
Official source: citizensinformation.ie · Checked 2026-09-27

Free energy advice

SEAI gives free energy-saving advice and home upgrade grants, including solar PV. If you are struggling with bills, MABS, the State's money advice service, gives free confidential help on 0818 07 2000.

SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) and MABS 🔗 seai.ie

Regulated price

Retail prices are not capped. Suppliers set their own tariffs; the CRU monitors prices and competition.

Official source: citizensinformation.ie · Checked 2026-09-27

🪜 Step by step

  1. See what existsThe schemes in Ireland are listed below, with who qualifies.
  2. Check if it is automaticSome discounts are applied automatically. For others you have to apply.
  3. Get free adviceFree energy or debt advice can help you lower your bills and deal with arrears.
  4. Talk to your supplierAsk about a cheaper tariff or a payment plan, and register as a vulnerable customer if that applies.

📇 Who to contact

SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) and MABSFree advice on energy costs and saving energyWhen bills are too high or you are behind on payments🔗 www.seai.ie
Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU)Supervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules📞 1800 404 404🔗 www.cru.ie

❓ Questions

Do I have to apply?

It depends on the scheme. The details for Ireland are on this page.

Who gets the discount if I rent?

Usually the person named on the energy contract.

Is there help for heating oil or wood?

Some countries have separate heating allowances. Ask the social services of your municipality.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-09-27

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

🔗 Also useful

🔄Switching supplier→📈Price increase→🧾Wrong or high bill→💸Can’t pay the bill→🏚️Supplier went bust→

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