Today's Electricity Prices - 12 March 2026
The electricity prices shown below are based on the day-ahead market prices for Ireland (Single Electricity Market). Prices vary throughout the day based on supply and demand.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Cheapest Period | 22:30–23:00 (0.0248€/kWh) |
| Most Expensive Period | 18:00–18:30 (0.126€/kWh) |
| Change vs Previous Day | +12.59% |
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European Electricity Prices Comparison
Electricity prices vary significantly across European countries. Here is how Ireland compares on 12 March 2026:
| Country | Price (€/kWh) |
|---|---|
| Ireland | 0.167 |
| United Kingdom | 0.125 |
| Netherlands | 0.091 |
| Poland | 0.091 |
| Romania | 0.094 |
| Slovenia | 0.101 |
Understanding Electricity Prices
Wholesale electricity prices in Ireland are set on the Single Electricity Market (SEM), a shared market between Ireland and Northern Ireland. Prices are determined through a day-ahead auction where generators bid to supply electricity.
What Affects Electricity Prices?
- Wind generation: Higher wind output typically lowers prices
- Gas prices: As gas plants often set the marginal price, gas costs directly impact electricity prices
- Demand: Peak demand periods (typically 5pm–7pm) see higher prices
- Interconnector flows: Imports from and exports to Great Britain affect supply availability
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Our energy experts at Selectra can help you secure a great rate for your home - completely free.
How to Save on Electricity
If you have a smart meter with a time-of-use tariff, you can take advantage of price variations throughout the day:
- Off-peak hours: Run high-consumption appliances during the cheapest periods (typically overnight)
- Peak avoidance: Minimise usage during the most expensive periods (typically early evening)
- Smart scheduling: Use timer functions on appliances to automatically run during cheaper periods