ESB chiefs have confirmed that Storm Eowyn costs will not be added to customer bills – as some premises are still left with no power.
And around 5,500 customers across the country remain without electricity.
The hurricane-force winds of Storm Eowyn resulted in extensive damage to the electricity network, far beyond anything experienced previously.
ESB bosses said it was the “extent and the nature of this damage” which resulted in so many people losing supply, with many parts of the network destroyed by falling trees.
The ESB said: “This is the reason that, despite tremendous and sustained efforts by ESB Networks teams, supported by contracting partners and international support, some customers in the worst hit areas still remain without power.”
The firm announced that costs of network repairs from Storm Eowyn will not impact on electricity prices during 2025.
They urged that in the longer term, the Regulator will review these with ESB Networks before the composition of network charges from October 2026 onwards is determined.
ESB Chief Executive, Paddy Hayes said: “I can only imagine the hardship for customers who have been without electricity for many days in the aftermath of Storm Eowyn and my heart goes out to them.
“I can understand why, in answering a question about costs, my response might have caused concern.
“I had absolutely no intention of being insensitive or adding to the stress facing customers at this difficult time.
“I should have made it clear that it is far too early either to assess the costs of repairing the damage caused by this storm, or to address how those costs will be met.”
Crews have restored power to over 762,000 customers and are “completely focused” on restoring power to those still in the dark.
Mr. Hayes added: “I would like to acknowledge again how difficult this has been for those customers who have been without electricity, despite the tireless work being done by all in ESB Networks to restore power to every single customer.”
Skilled technicians from Austria, Finland, Great Britain, Germany, and Norway are supporting over 2,500 local ESB crews and partner contractors.
Speaking to RTE’s Today with Claire Byrne on Thursday, Mr Hayes said: “It’s likely that those charges which are allowed there will find their way back into the overall cost of our distribution network.
“There is a cost associated by this that will be borne across the electricity network as a whole.
“It is a devastating and destructive storm, the likes of which we have never seen before.”
Sinn Fein Leader Mary Lou McDonald had raised the issue to Taoiseach Micheal Martin in the Dail and called for a Government intervention.
ESB issued an important public safety message as the repair works continue.
It reads: “ESB Networks reminds the public to Stay Safe, Stay Clear of fallen electricity wires.
“If you come across fallen wires or damaged electricity network, never, ever touch or approach these as they are LIVE and extremely dangerous.
“Please report any damage to electricity infrastructure by calling 1800 372 999.
“Clean up and repair operations should be left with professional operators who have the necessary competence to undertake the work safely.
“Only trained and competent operators equipped with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) should ever use chainsaws.”
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