David Tait

Comparing energy providers can be really difficult nowadays since most have very similar prices and discounts on their rates. The real trick is to look at what you're getting with your energy rates. In order to make the most informed decision, you need to consider your own energy habits, as well as looking into customer reviews to see other people's experiences. Another factor you might want to consider, given the number of suppliers who have pulled out of the market due to the crisis, is stability.

In Ireland, energy suppliers typically offer discounts and cashbacks. You should watch out for these when you're researching which suppliers to go with because even though a supplier might offer a higher discount, their rates might be much higher and so not making much difference. You should also be aware that once you sign up for discounted rates, you'll be locked in your contract until it finishes (unless you want to pay an exit fee!).

Finding an environmentally-friendly that supplies 100% green electricity is also not as straightforward as it should be. Most mainstream energy suppliers need to buy their energy from the grid before supplying it to our houses so almost all of them need to rely on fossil fuels in our energy mix. The way that suppliers get their green credentials is through carbon offsetting their energy to make sure it nets out as green. To find out what every supplier's fuel mix is like, check out the CRU's Fuel Mix Disclosure.