The Energy Regulator says one in five households are behind on their electricity bill.

4% of gas customers say they are in arrears - while 1-in-8 of those who took part in the survey say they switched suppliers last year.

The survey of 1,000 electricity and 1,000 gas customers was carried out by 'Behaviour & Attitudes for the Energy Regulator' and found that 20% of households are in arrears on their electricity bill.

Another 14% say they manage by paying in installments.

For gas customers it is a similar story - with 4% behind on their bills and 16% making partial payments.

The survey also reveals there is rising interest in prepaid energy options.

10% of electricity and 18% of gas customers say they would consider that approach - while 1-in-10 said they are interested in equalised billing where payments are spread evenly all year round.

Dermot Jewell of the Consumer Association of Ireland says the Energy Regulator should be more transparent about the rates households charged to households.