7% rise in number of gas and electricity disconnections

A new report from the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) shows that almost 50 people per day had their electricity or gas cut off last year.

The organisation says over 17,700 customers had their electricity and gas disconnected in 2011, representing a 7% increase on the previous year.

The numbers of people using pay-as-you-go electricity meters is also on the increase - with over 700 installed in homes over the past three months.

Energy customers are being advised that if they are having difficulties meeting their bills there are payment plans they can enter into with their supplier.

Commissioner for Energy Regulation Garrett Blaney said officials are on hand to help resolve any issues customers may have with their supplier.

"If people are not happy with their treatment from their supplier they have a right to come back to us (the CER)," he said.

"We have an ombudsman role in relation to this and will take their complaint."