‘Debt hopping’ to force energy bills up

A massive surge in “debt hopping” by many householders switching between energy providers could lead to consumers facing higher gas and electricity bills.

The head of Bord Gáis, John Mullins, delivered the warning after confirming customers who switched from Bord Gáis Energy to other suppliers left the company with €17m in unpaid bills.

“Debt hopping is a serious issuing facing the energy industry, as the non-payment of closed accounts is an unfair practice which ultimately leads to higher costs for all customers,” said Mr Mullins.