Sligo-Leitrim TD urges vulnerable electricity customers to apply to scheme

Sligo-Leitrim TD Marian Harkin is urging people who are critically dependent on energy services due to age, health, or personal circumstances to register with the Vulnerable Customer Scheme.

Those availing of the scheme who are reliant on life-support or medical devices receive priority during power outages and advance notice of planned outages to allow for safe preparation and alternative arrangements.

Recipients also get enhanced communication options, including large-print, Braille, or talking bills for customers with visual or hearing impairments, as well as protection from winter disconnection between November 1st and March 31st.

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The scheme is available to anyone reliant on electrically powered medical equipment; people who are vulnerable to disconnection between November 1st and March 31st due to advanced age or physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental health challenges; people over 66 years of age who live alone, with other elderly individuals, or with minors; or individuals who have mobility, visual, auditory, or speech difficulties.

“The Vulnerable Customer Scheme means that these customers will be a priority in the event of energy outages,” said Deputy Harkin. “It offers support for people who rely on electricity for life-support equipment, or who may be particularly at risk during the winter months.”

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“I strongly encourage people in these circumstances to register and become included in the Vulnerable Customer Scheme — a national initiative designed to prioritise the maintenance or restoration of energy supply for those dependent on electricity for medical or essential living needs.”

Individuals can register with their electricity supplier as vulnerable customers if they are critically dependent on electrically powered medical or assistive devices, or if, because of age or health conditions, they are particularly vulnerable in the event of disconnection during winter.

Suppliers then share this information with ESB Networks, ensuring eligible customers are included on the Vulnerable Customer Register.