Irish Households Urged to Submit Meter Readings Amidst October Energy Price Hikes

Deadline Looms for Meter Readings

Households across Ireland have been urged to submit their electricity and gas meter readings by October 1, 2025. This critical advice aims to prevent consumers from being charged at new, higher rates for energy consumed before the price adjustments take effect. Energy suppliers often rely on estimated usage if current readings are not provided, potentially leading to inflated bills for periods prior to the increases.

Significant Price Increases from Major Suppliers

Several prominent energy providers in Ireland have announced substantial electricity price hikes taking effect in October 2025:

• Bord Gáis Energy: Electricity unit rates are set to increase by 13.5%, with standing charges rising by 12%, effective from October 12, 2025. This will add an average of €18.16 per month to a typical electricity bill. Prices for Bord Gáis Energy's gas customers will remain unchanged.
• SSE Airtricity: The company will increase its standard variable household electricity prices and standing charges by 9.5% from October 20, 2025. This change is expected to add approximately €151 annually, or €0.41 per day, to a typical electricity customer's bill. Domestic gas prices are unaffected.
• Pinergy: Customers will see electricity prices increase by 9.83% from October 13, 2025, adding around €199 annually to a typical household bill.
• Energia: Electricity prices are set to rise by up to 12.1% from October 9, 2025, potentially adding over €200 to annual bills for many customers.

In contrast, Electric Ireland has announced that it will not increase electricity prices for its 1.1 million customers and will reduce residential gas rates by 4% from November 1, 2025.

Underlying Factors for Rising Costs

The announced price adjustments are attributed to a combination of factors impacting the energy market. Suppliers have cited continued increases in network charges, the volatility of wholesale energy markets, and the higher cost of doing business as primary reasons for the hikes. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), Ireland's independent energy and water regulator, is responsible for setting price controls and reviewing tariffs for network companies. Regulated electricity charges for 2025/26 are also set to be updated from October 1, 2025.

Why Submitting Meter Readings is Crucial

For households without smart meters, submitting an accurate meter reading ensures that energy consumed up to September 30 is billed at the outgoing, lower rates. Without a reading, suppliers may estimate usage, potentially charging a portion of earlier consumption at the new, higher rates. This practice can lead to unexpected increases in bills. The CRU has noted the importance of smart meters, with every home and business in Ireland expected to have one by the end of 2025, providing more detailed information on electricity usage.