What Is Energy Poverty?
A household is considered energy poor if it spends more than 10% of its income on energy, or if it cannot afford to keep its home adequately warm. Following the energy price rises of 2022-2023, an estimated 300,000-400,000 Irish households — roughly 1 in 5 — fell into energy poverty.
Energy poverty is not just about cold homes. It affects health, education outcomes for children, and overall quality of life. Older people and those with health conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Fuel Allowance
The Fuel Allowance is a means-tested payment from the Department of Social Protection. It is paid to households receiving certain long-term social welfare payments who cannot afford to heat their homes. The allowance is currently €33 per week for 28 weeks (approximately €924 per year).
To qualify, you must be receiving a qualifying payment (such as a State Pension, Disability Allowance, or Jobseeker's Allowance) and satisfy a means test. Contact your local Intreo office or the Department of Social Protection for details.
Electricity Allowance
The Household Benefits Package includes an electricity allowance worth approximately €35 per month (€420 per year). It's available to people over 70 and certain other groups in receipt of qualifying payments. It appears as a credit on your electricity bill.
SEAI Warmer Homes Scheme
This is arguably the most valuable support for energy-poor households. The SEAI Warmer Homes Scheme provides free energy upgrades — including insulation, heating system upgrades, and draught-proofing — to homeowners who receive certain means-tested social welfare payments.
The upgrades are entirely free of charge and can dramatically reduce heating costs, with typical savings of €400-€800 per year on energy bills. Demand for the scheme is high and waiting times can be long, but it is well worth applying.
Emergency Assistance
The Community Welfare Service provides Exceptional Needs Payments that can help with emergency energy costs. If you are in genuine hardship and cannot pay your energy bill, contact your local Intreo office.
Switching to Save
Even if you are energy poor, switching provider can make a significant difference. Many Irish suppliers offer special rates or additional discounts for households receiving Fuel Allowance. Use Billmanage to compare all available tariffs and find the lowest cost plan for your usage.
Long-Term Solutions
The most effective long-term solution to energy poverty is improving your home's energy efficiency — primarily through insulation. A well-insulated home requires far less energy to heat, reducing bills regardless of fuel prices. The Warmer Homes Scheme is the key route to accessing free upgrades if you qualify.
If you need help navigating the support system, the MABS (Money Advice and Budgeting Service) can provide free advice on managing energy costs.