Northern Ireland electricity prices are 12% lower than prices across the Irish border, according to reports seen by Fine Gael Energy Spokesman Simon Coveney.

The TD said consumers have a right to ask if they are "being ripped off".

"ESB consumers have long felt that the rates they are paying are far too high and, as the following table shows, they are right to be concerned," said Mr Coveney.

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"Prices are, on average, 12% higher under ESB surely cannot be justified and consumers who have a right to seriously question if they are being ripped off."

The Utility Regulator in Northern Ireland verified a 5% decrease in tariffs for domestic users but the ESB, last month, announced zero price cuts for households and only a marginal 0.4% reduction for small businesses.

Mr Conveney said this is "simply not good enough".

"Medium-sized businesses have been paying between 18% and 52% more than the EU average, with large industrial users paying the highest prices in Europe," he said.

The TD said permission for an interconnector between Ireland and Wales will bring down electricity prices in the long run but "immediate action is needed to cut high utility tariffs".

(PR/GK)