Government keeps consumers in the dark regarding energy plan

Sir, – Conor Pope reports, (May 28th), on the rise in costs in July of electricity and gas by 8 per cent and 7.7 per cent respectively due in large measure to the US-Iran conflict – that’s a big shock for consumers already suffering cost-of-living hikes across the board. Turning to the 80 or so data centres, they will see their operating costs of electricity rise considerably. EirGrid issued a warning in February to say the country faces “a potentially challenging situation” in meeting the demand for electricity between now and 2028. We’re now halfway through the year. What does the Government propose before the lights go out and the national grid keels over? More to the point, what contingencies are in place to meet that increased demand for electricity, and for gas, by Government, business and the consumer? – Yours, etc, ALASTAIR CONAN, Coulsdon, England. Sir, – I am unclear whether the electricity price regulator exists for the benefit of the consumer or the power provider. Perhaps the relevant Minister could explain. – Yours, etc, CORMAC MEEHAN, Bundoran, Co Donegal.