The “Loyalty Penalty”: Why You Are Overpaying for Electricity in Ireland
CORK – Did you know that staying loyal to your electricity provider is costing you money? It is called the “Loyalty Penalty.”
In 2026, energy companies like Electric Ireland, Bord Gáis, and Energia offer huge discounts to new customers (sometimes up to 20% off), while existing customers pay the standard high rate.
📉 How Much Can You Save?
According to the CRU (Commission for Regulation of Utilities), the average Irish household can save between €300 and €500 per year just by switching supplier.
🔌 Smart Meters: Friend or Foe?
Most homes in Ireland now have a Smart Meter.
- The Benefit: You can choose “Time-of-Use” tariffs.
- Free Sunday: Some providers offer “Free Electricity on Sundays” if you sign up for a smart plan.
- Night Rate: If you have an Electric Vehicle (EV), charging it between 2 AM and 5 AM is significantly cheaper on a smart plan.
🛠️ How to Switch (It takes 5 minutes)
You do not need to call anyone or have an engineer visit your house.
- Grab your latest bill (you need your MPRN number).
- Go to a comparison site like Bonkers.ie or Switcher.ie.
- Enter your usage.
- Pick the cheapest deal and click “Switch”.
Conclusion Electricity is the same product whether it comes from Company A or Company B. Why pay more for the exact same electrons? Switch today and put that €400 back in your wallet.