Sir, – In relation to domestic gas prices as recently referenced by a letter from one of your readers (David Cooke, February 26th), retail electricity and gas supply in Ireland operates in a fully open marketplace which promotes competition among suppliers.
Suppliers are currently offering up to 26 per cent savings, which means consumers can save up to €400 on their yearly electricity and gas bills if they switch supplier. Standard tariffs have also reduced in the past year.
While the Commission for Energy Regulation believes there is scope for further tariff reductions by suppliers in the coming year, active consumers will get the best value and will also drive suppliers to reduce their prices.
The commission would encourage consumers to either switch supplier or negotiate with their current supplier to find a better deal.
The Commission for Energy Regulation is currently developing a range of proposals to encourage more activity by consumers in competitive markets and enhance consumer protection and welcomes feedback from all stakeholders on this. – Yours, etc,
KARL RICHARDSON,
Commission
for Energy Regulation,
The Exchange,
Belgard Square North,
Tallaght,
Dublin 24.