Electricity price increases highest in Europe

ELECTRICITY prices have increased a massive 61% over the past five years - the highest energy price inflation anywhere in Europe.

The cost of electricity for industry has also recorded the highest rate of increase since 2000 - up 41% in a move that could threaten the competitiveness of Irish businesses.

A study of European gas and electricity markets shows the cost of electricity, since 2000, has soared in the Republic to almost nine times the average EU energy inflation levels.