Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Correspondent
The Commission for Regulation of Utilities dealt with a massive increase in contacts from energy and water customers last year.
Over 12,370 contacts were received, up 87% in 2021.
Electricity account problems and billing issues drove the largest volume of contacts.
Of complaints investigated relating to energy and water, 43% were upheld in favour of the customer, which is up from 32% in 2021.
The CRU provides a free dispute resolution service to customers who have unresolved complaints against their energy supplier, network operator or Uisce Éireann.
One complaint dealt with by the CRU involved a customer who advised it took 37 days of telephone calls before the supplier reacted to the issue, which concerned a disputed account debit of €2,200.
It took 116 days before the money was returned.
There were 367 contacts concerning Uisce Éireann in 2022, down slightly from 2021.
Seventeen complaints concerning the water utility were received and 71% of those were resolved in favour of the customers.
CRU director of Customer Policy and Protection Karen Trant said the increase in contacts was driven by some unprecedented events in global energy markets and advised customers to make sure they benefit from the best tariffs available.
She added: “The CRU would advise all customers to remain informed when it comes to their rights and switching suppliers or renegotiating with your current supplier can still deliver savings.
“It is important for customers to ensure they are on the best tariff for their needs.”
Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Correspondent
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