What Is The Cooling-Off Period?

The cooling-off period provides Irish energy customers the opportunity to cancel their new contract free of charge within 14 days from contract signing, including weekends and bank holidays. During this window, you can cancel without having to worry about exit fees. This legal right is outlined in the Customer Rights Act, and suppliers must inform customers of this period.

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How Does The Cooling-Off Period Work in Ireland?

The cooling-off period typically runs during the standard 2-week switching period. Customers may cancel for various reasons including:

  1. Finding cheaper deals after signing
  2. Second thoughts about the provider
  3. Realizing bills will be higher
  4. Changed financial circumstances
  5. Increases to levies/taxes affecting affordability
  6. Current provider offering better deal
  7. Unforeseen circumstances
  8. Higher actual average bills
You are under no obligation to disclose why you want to cancel your new energy contract.

What if My Energy Supply Has Already Started?

Cancellation remains possible within 14 days even after supply begins. You will pay for the actual energy you consumed at the agreed rates but face no exit fees.

Will My Power Be Cut Off?

No interruption occurs. The new provider notifies ESB Networks or Gas Networks Ireland, reverting the account to the previous supplier seamlessly.

How Do I Cancel During the Cooling-Off Period in Ireland?

Steps to cancel:

  1. Check the agreement date to confirm you're within the 14-day window
  2. Contact your provider by phone or email (email recommended for written documentation)
  3. Inform them of your decision to end the contract
  4. Choose to remain with your old provider or seek another

No energy bill will be received from the new provider. Your old provider will be notified and will contact you.

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Our energy experts at Selectra compare all 11 Irish suppliers to find you the lowest rate for your home — completely free.

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This is a free call from Ireland. Selectra agents can assist you with comparing and switching energy providers on weekdays between 9 am and 5.30 pm.

What If I Want to Cancel After 14 Days?

After the cooling-off period expires, cancellation remains possible but is subject to provider contract terms. Typical penalties are €50 or €100 for dual fuel contracts.

Contact Details for Major Irish Energy Suppliers

Contact Details for Major Irish Energy Suppliers comparison table
Provider Contact Number Best Method
Electric Ireland 1800 372 372 Phone or Online Form
Bord Gais Energy 01 611 01 01 Phone or Email
SSE Airtricity 0818 81 22 20 Phone or Webchat
Flogas 041 214 9500 Email
Energia 0818 405 405 Phone

Frequently Asked Questions About the cooling off period

The cooling-off period is 14 days from the date you sign an energy contract. This includes weekends and bank holidays. During this window, you can cancel without paying any exit fees.
No. There will be no interruption to your energy supply. The new provider notifies ESB Networks or Gas Networks Ireland, and your account reverts seamlessly to your previous supplier.
Yes, but you may face exit fees. Typical penalties are €50 for a single fuel contract or €100 for a dual fuel contract. If your contract is 24 months, the penalty could be as high as €200 for dual fuel.
Check your agreement date to confirm you are within the 14-day window, then contact your new provider by phone or email. Email is recommended as it provides written documentation of your cancellation request.