Energy Commissioner introduces debt-flagging procedure

The Commissioner with the Commission for Energy Regulation Dermot Nolan has said new debt-flagging measures are being introduced, following serious concerns from St. Vincent de Paul and MABS.

The organisations are said to have been worried at the way in which customers could build-up debts with one energy provider before moving on to another, without paying their outstanding bills.

From now on, the Commission for Energy Regulation said gas and electricity companies will be informed when a new customer is in debt with their previous supplier.

The Commissioner said he believes it will address the problem while at the same time, it will not stop people from switching providers.