Cheapest Electricity in Ireland (2026) – Compare Rates & Save Up to €800
Looking for the cheapest electricity in Ireland today? Compare live 2026 rates and see how much you could save in under 60 seconds.
Electricity prices in Ireland remain among the highest in Europe. If you haven’t switched supplier in the last 12 months, there’s a strong chance you are overpaying.
In 2026, the difference between the cheapest and most expensive electricity plans can be hundreds of euro per year.
This guide explains:
- Who typically offers the cheapest electricity
- What affects electricity rates
- Whether smart or day/night tariffs are cheaper
- How to avoid the loyalty penalty
- How to switch and start saving
Compare the cheapest electricity deals now
Who Has the Cheapest Electricity in Ireland Right Now?
There is no single supplier that is always the cheapest. Electricity providers regularly adjust discounts, introductory offers and tariff structures.
If you're comparing more than just price, our full breakdown of Best Electricity Providers in Ireland (2026) looks at customer service, green energy options and tariff structures across all major suppliers.
What Affects the Cheapest Electricity Rate?
1. Your Meter Type
The cheapest tariff depends heavily on your meter type:
- Standard 24-hour meter
- Day/Night meter
- Smart meter (time-of-use tariff)
If you use a lot of electricity at night, a day/night or smart tariff may be cheaper.
Learn more in our guide to Day vs Night Electricity Tariffs.
2. Smart Tariffs – Are They Actually Cheaper?
Smart tariffs can be significantly cheaper — if you shift usage to off-peak hours.
They typically include:
- Day rate
- Peak rate
- Night rate
- Boost rate (ultra-cheap overnight period)
Not sure whether a time-of-use tariff is right for you? Read our complete guide to Smart Meter Tariffs in Ireland (2026) to see who benefits most and who should avoid them.
3. Your Usage Level
Higher usage homes benefit more from large percentage discounts. Lower usage homes may benefit more from lower standing charges.
4. Contract Status
Most discounted plans last 12 months. After that, customers are moved onto higher standard rates. This is known as the loyalty penalty.
Switching every year is the simplest way to stay on the cheapest available rate.
Should You Consider Dual Fuel?
If you have both gas and electricity, you may also want to compare Dual Fuel Deals in Ireland (Gas & Electricity 2026) to see whether bundling both fuels together works out cheaper.
How Much Can You Save?
Households switching from out-of-contract rates typically save between €400 and €800 per year. Higher usage homes often save more.
How to Find the Cheapest Electricity Deal
You can compare tariffs manually, but rates change frequently and discounts expire after 12 months.
WeSwitchU monitors the market and helps you:
- Identify the cheapest tariff for your usage
- Switch seamlessly
- Avoid out-of-contract rates
- Review your plan annually
Find the cheapest electricity in Ireland now
Or call us on 01-9125161 for expert advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest electricity provider in Ireland?
The cheapest provider changes regularly depending on discounts and your usage profile.
Is it cheaper to switch electricity every year?
Yes. Most suppliers offer discounted rates for 12 months only.
Does switching electricity interrupt supply?
No. Your supply continues without interruption.
Ready to Switch?
If you haven’t switched in the last year, you are likely paying more than necessary.