Sinn Féin MEP Lynn Boylan commented on the latest energy debt, arrears and disconnection figures published by the CRU earlier today.
The figures, which relate to February this year, show a grim situation even without the impacts of the illegal attacks on Iran being factored into the data.
The Dublin MEP said:
“Arrears are at critically high levels. A total of 316,838 households were in arrears in February 2026 which is the second highest figure according to available records.
“That represents a whopping 23% increase or 58,500 more households compared to February last year.
“Particularly worrying is the rise in long-term arrears. The number of households in debt for over 90 days has increased to 191,374, up 23% (35,777) on the same time last year, and continuing to edge higher month-on-month.
“This is especially worrying to see after the worst of the winter had already passed.
“At the same time, the level of debt has reached new highs. The average amount owed now stands at €492.75, an increase of €64.94 on last year.
“In total, households owe over €156 million to electricity suppliers. A further €37 million is owed by households to gas companies bringing the total owed to energy companies to €193 million, highlighting the scale of financial pressure facing consumers.
“Disconnections have risen sharply, with 154 recorded in February 2026 compared to 116 in February 2025 – an increase of 33%.
“Even more starkly, 197 disconnections have already occurred so far this year, up 64% on the same period last year.
“This suggests that more households are reaching breaking point.
“Taken together, these figures show a sustained and worsening problem.
“More households are falling into arrears, debts are getting deeper, and disconnections are accelerating.
“Without government intervention, there is a real risk that energy poverty will continue to intensify. People need energy credits in the short term, while in the long term, the government must use the presidency of the EU to push forward real reform of the electricity market.”
