Our Department's responsibility is to formulate and implement policy and legislation on the liberalisation and regulation of the electricity markets. Please visit our legislation page for a full list of electricity legislation.
Electricity Generation
A number of different sources generate electricity in Ireland. The main fuel used to generate electricity is gas. However, through a number of different schemes renewable electricity production is on the increase.
Electricity Networks
The infrastructure of wires and cables around the country is divided into the distribution network and the transmission network. The transmission network sends electricity from generating stations to main points in the country. The electricity passes into the distribution network at these points. The distribution network then sends electricity supply to customers' premises. ESB Networks is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the electricity distribution network in Ireland. It is also responsible for maintaining and developing the transmission network. EirGrid is responsible for operating and planning the development of the transmission system.
Frontier Report on Transmission Asset Analysis
Electricity Supply and Competition
The electricity market opened fully to competition on the 19th of February 2005. This means that suppliers can enter the market and compete for business. Since 2005, competition has continued to develop in all aspects of the market. As a result, all sectors of the electricity supply market are deregulated since 4th April 2011. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is Ireland's independent energy regulator. The aim of the CRU's economic role is to protect the interests of energy customers and maintain security of supply. The CRU also promote competition in the generation and supply of electricity and supply of natural gas. Please visit the CRU website for a list of electricity suppliers. If you have trouble with your bill please see here for complaints procedure.