The ESB has assured customers they won't be left footing the bill for repair works caused by recent storm damage.
In a statement issued last night, the company clarified that 2025 electricity prices will not be impacted by the fallout of Storm Éowyn.
Chief Executive Paddy Hayes said he had not intended to be ‘insensitive’ when, earlier this week, he stated that these costs would fall back on ESB customers.
“I can only image the hardship for customers who have been without electricity for many days in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn and my heart goes out to them,” he said in yesterday’s statement.
“I can understand why, in answering a question about costs, my response might have caused concern.
"I had absolutely no intention of being insensitive or adding to the stress facing customers at this difficult time.
“I should have made it clear that it is far too early either to assess the costs of repairing the damage caused by this storm, or to address how those costs will be met.”
Mr Hayes had previously said the impacts of Storm Éowyn would cost the company “tens of millions”.
ESB said network repairs will not affect electricity prices in 2025 and that the Regulator will review these costs with the company before deciding rates from October 2026 onwards.
Meanwhile around 5,600 homes farms and businesses are still in the dark as crews continue working to restore power.
Main image: 25/01/2025 ESB Networks crews and partner contractors pictured on site near Dunmanway in West Cork during restoration works in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn.
Picture: Michael O'Sullivan /OSM
