Threefold increase in alternative ESB plans

THE number of payment plans arranged by ESB for customers struggling with their bills has increased threefold to 240,000.

The company said that as a result, it has seen a drop in the number of customers in arrears, from 10% this time last year to 9%, representing 110,000 customers. It has also seen a 40% reduction in the number of customer disconnections, compared to the same period last year.

“As clearly demonstrated, disconnection is very much a last resort and only arises after a lengthy process,” said an ESB spokesman.