Airtricity to increase standing charges

Airtricity is increasing its standing charges for domestic electricity and gas customers.

The company said the increase is down to the challenges it faces in recovering debt from some customers.

From April 1 the standing charge on electricity bills will go up by €1.50 per month, with gas increasing by €1 per month (€1.70 per month and €1.14 per month VAT-inclusive).

However, the company said standing charges for customers on pre-payment meters will not be affected.

"We very much regret that we must increase our standing charges at this time," said Managing Director Stephen Wheeler.

"Unfortunately we have seen a significant increase in our costs related to recovering debt in addition to a considerable deterioration in our debt profile.

"The increases announced today are necessary to ensure that we maintain a sustainable cost base that allows us continue to offer a real choice to energy customers."