How Does Pay As You Go Electricity Work?
Instead of a single, monthly or bimonthly bill, PAYG customers pay for their electricity upfront. This model is often favoured by renters, those with variable income, or anyone who wants to actively monitor and reduce their energy consumption.
The total cost of your PAYG electricity is made up of several components:
- Unit Rate (c/kWh): The price you pay for each unit of electricity you consume. This is the most significant factor in your overall cost.
- Standing Charge: A fixed daily or annual charge that covers the costs of providing a supply to your home.
- Prepayment Service Charge: A daily charge specific to PAYG customers that covers the cost of maintaining the prepayment system and meter. This charge is unique to this type of plan and is a key reason PAYG can be more expensive than bill-pay.
- Government Levies: The PSO levy is a government-mandated levy that all electricity customers must pay to support renewable energy.
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Who Has the Cheapest Pay As You Go Electricity?
The table below compares all pay as you go electricity plans available in Ireland, ranked by estimated annual cost.
Based on 4,200 kWh, urban PAYG meter, VAT included. Updated 16 Apr 2026.
Is PAYG Electricity Cheaper Than Metered Electricity?
In general, pay-as-you-go (PAYG) electricity is more expensive than a traditional metered electricity plan. This is due to a prepayment service charge that is added on top of the usual unit rate and standing charge.
| Feature | Traditional Metered (Bill-Pay) | Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Rate | Often includes significant discounts for new customers or direct debit | Typically higher and less likely to offer large discounts |
| Standing Charge | A fixed daily or annual charge | A fixed daily or annual charge, sometimes slightly higher |
| Additional Charges | No extra charges beyond unit rate, standing charge, and PSO Levy | Includes a specific "Prepayment Service Charge" adding over €100 annually |
| Payment Method | Monthly or bi-monthly bills, often by Direct Debit | Top-up as you go, online, via app, or at physical outlet |
| Budgeting Control | Less direct control; bills are a total sum of past usage | Complete control; you see credit being deducted in real-time |
Which Suppliers Offer Pay As You Go Electricity?
The main providers of pay-as-you-go electricity in Ireland are:
PrepayPower
One of the most established and dedicated PAYG providers in the country. They offer a straightforward pay-as-you-go model that allows customers to top up credit through their app, online, or at Payzone outlets. A major selling point is their mobile app and in-home display giving real-time energy usage and spending views.
Pinergy
A dedicated pay-as-you-go provider with a strong emphasis on smart energy and sustainability. They are known for providing 100% renewable electricity and focusing on technology that helps customers actively reduce their consumption. For environmentally conscious customers, Pinergy is the cheapest green PAYG option.
Electric Ireland
A major player in the Irish energy market that also offers a pay-as-you-go option for customers with smart meters. The Smart Pay As You Go plan is designed to offer the convenience of PAYG with the backing of a large, established provider.
Bord Gais Energy
Bord Gais Energy also offers a Pay As You Go option, catering to both traditional and smart meter customers. The flexibility of being with a large, full-service supplier (offering gas, dual fuel, boiler services) can be a benefit for some customers.
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What Happens If I Run Out of Credit?
All providers offer an emergency credit feature to ensure you are not left without power. When your credit runs low, your meter will alert you with a warning sound. You can then activate a small amount of emergency credit (typically €10 - €20) to give you time to top up. This emergency credit will be deducted from your next top-up.
Suppliers are legally required to provide a 'safe period' during which they cannot disconnect your supply. This typically includes:
- Weekends
- Public holidays
- Specific hours on weekdays (e.g., after 4 pm)
How Do I Switch to a Pay As You Go Electricity Provider?
- Choose Your Provider: Compare their rates (unit rate, standing charge, and any prepayment service fees).
- Gather Your Information: You'll need your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN), contact details, current address and Eircode.
- Initiate the Switch: Contact your chosen new provider online, by phone, or via a sign-up form.
- The Provider Handles the Rest: Your new provider will contact your current supplier and ESB Networks to manage the switch.
- Installation and Activation: A technician will install the new meter and activate the new provider's system.
- Final Bill and Refund: Your old provider will send a final bill and refund any remaining credit.
Who Should Use Pay As You Go Electricity?
It's a great option for:
- Individuals who need strict control over their budget and want to avoid unexpected bills
- Households who want to actively monitor and reduce their energy consumption
- Renters or those who move frequently
- Anyone with a poor or no credit history
It may not be the best option for:
- Households primarily focused on getting the lowest possible annual cost
- Those who prefer the convenience of monthly Direct Debit