How Does Business Electricity in Ireland Work?
Business electricity represents a very different world to domestic electricity. Whereas with domestic electricity you'll usually get a range of options for your residential home, with businesses that usually use a lot more electricity, the process is a bit more complicated! Whether you run a restaurant or a hair salon, understanding your energy needs is essential.
How Much Energy Does a Business Need?
According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), Irish businesses spent €17 billion on energy-related products in 2023 — more than double the €8.2 billion recorded in 2019, driven largely by the energy price crisis. The average household uses around 3,250 kWh annually, compared to business usage:
| Business Size | Number of Employees | Average Annual Electricity Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Microbusiness | Less than 10 | 5,000 - 15,000 kWh |
| Small business | 11 to 50 | 15,000 - 25,000 kWh |
| Medium business | 51 to 250 | 25,000 - 50,000 kWh |
Is Business Electricity Cheaper Than Domestic?
Business electricity tends to be cheaper than domestic electricity, however due to higher consumption, businesses ultimately pay the same or even more annually. Two key factors:
- Lower Unit Rate — Businesses receive a lower unit rate per kWh, but they pay the same or even more annually due to higher consumption.
- Long Contract Terms — Business contracts are very specific to the business being supplied with longer contract terms that can extend over years.
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What Are Business Electricity Tariffs Like in Ireland?
Business electricity tariffs greatly depend on the type of business you're running. Contracts are normally bespoke where they have been specifically catered to your individual company's needs.
Two main tariff types:
- Fixed or Variable Rates — Choose between a fixed rate versus a variable rate. Fixed rates remain stable; variable rates will fluctuate with wholesale market prices.
- Half-Hourly Meter Tariffs — Business energy meters record readings every thirty minutes for accurate billing. Customers with half-hourly meters benefit the most from bespoke contracts.
Can I Get a Dual Fuel Tariff as a Business?
Dual fuel options are a little more complicated than domestic arrangements. You might find providers willing to also supply you your business gas at a discount!
Who Is the Cheapest Business Electricity Supplier in Ireland?
Getting quotes can be very difficult since each company offers a tailored tariff to individual needs. Finding the cheapest provider isn't as easy as just comparing rates.
Which Providers Supply Business Electricity in Ireland?
There are eleven different providers supplying business electricity:
| Provider | Business Contact Number | Business Gas As Well? |
|---|---|---|
| Arden Energy | 1800 940 151 | No |
| Bord Gáis Energy | (01) 233 5000 | Yes |
| Cenergise | (01) 554 3635 | No |
| Energia | 0818 363 744 | Yes |
| Electric Ireland | 1800 305 070 | Yes |
| Flogas | 041 214 9500 | Yes |
| Go Power | (01) 866 5612 | No |
| Pinergy | 0818 363 749 | No |
| PrepayPower | 1800 929 053 | Yes |
| SSE Airtricity | 0818 812 144 | Yes |
| Waterpower | +353 (0) 29 50568 | No |
Can You Have Prepay Business Electricity?
Prepay options are available through Electric Ireland, PrepayPower, and Pinergy. However, it's advisable to use direct debit rather than pay-as-you-go plans.
Save on Your Business Energy Bills Today!
Our energy experts at Selectra can help your business secure a great commercial rate — completely free.
How Do I Switch Business Electricity in Ireland?
Switching takes a little longer than residential electricity. If relocating, you might have to do a disconnection to get registered in your new property.
What Do I Need for a Business Switch?
- Your Details — Ensure the name on the bill is the correct one and authorised. Provide contact details and address.
- Business Name — Supply your business' name and address for the correct supply location plus business contact details.
- MPRN — Provide your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) for your business address.
- Annual Usage — Provide annual consumption found on previous bills for the most accurate business electricity quote.
Is There Any Support for Business Electricity Customers?
The government's Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (T-BESS) provided €1.25 billion in relief to small and medium businesses during the energy crisis. While T-BESS has now closed to new applications, businesses can still access support through SEAI grants and other programmes. For more information on energy in Ireland, visit our energy guide.
What Is in the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme?
- A maximum of €10,000 for relief of up to 40% of the increased energy prices.
- The unit rate price in 2022 will be made comparable to 2021 rates.
- Support offered if prices rise a further 50%.