15/04/2026: British digital bank Monzo has officially launched in Ireland, offering current accounts and savings options to both consumers and businesses.

Having secured a full banking licence from the Central Bank of Ireland, the eagerly awaited launch brings a new competitor to the market with an initial waitlist of over 100,000 Irish customers.

Monzo will offer free everyday banking for individuals and businesses, as well as joint and kids’ accounts.

Compare Monzo with other Irish bank accounts and find out how to switch at our Current accounts comparison page.

14/04/2026: Ireland had the highest household electricity prices in Europe in 2024 before taxes, levies and Government supports were applied, according to new ESRI research.

The analysis, which reviewed Eurostat data from 2018 to 2024, said Ireland’s heavy exposure to international gas prices has been a key reason household electricity costs have remained so high.

While temporary measures such as VAT cuts and energy supports helped reduce the final price paid by customers, Irish household electricity prices were still the eighth highest in Europe in 2024 once those measures were taken into account.

The ESRI also warned that annual household electricity bills could rise by between €59 and €106 by 2029 or 2030 as network charges increase to fund investment in the electricity grid.

The findings underline the continued pressure on Irish energy customers and the country’s ongoing exposure to gas-driven electricity prices.

31/03/2026: Millions of Irish telecom customers are bracing for mid-contract broadband and mobile price hikes taking effect on 1 April 2026.

All the major providers are rolling out their annual increases, hitting household budgets once again.

While the unpopular inflation-linked formula (CPI plus 3%) remains in place for older contracts, newer customers will see flat-rate jumps of up to €4.50 per month on some broadband plans.

Consumer experts warn that these cumulative, year-on-year hikes are costing families hundreds of euros. Households are urged to review their current contracts and switch providers to ensure they’re getting the best plan for their needs and making the most of discounted deals and welcome rewards.

24/03/2026: The Government has announced a package of temporary measures to reduce fuel and energy costs after sharp increases in petrol, diesel and home heating oil prices linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

The measures include cuts to excise duty on petrol and diesel until 31 May, a temporary reduction in the NORA levy, and changes to the diesel rebate scheme to support transport operators. Taken together, the changes mean a reduction of about 17 cent per litre for petrol and 22 cent per litre for diesel.

Support for households has also been included, with the Fuel Allowance season extended by four weeks. Around 470,000 households will receive an extra €38 per week, worth €152 in total.

The Government said the package is designed to be temporary and targeted, with further measures possible if global energy prices remain volatile.

Fuel prices have risen in recent weeks as oil and gas costs increased worldwide, highlighting how events in international energy markets can affect household bills in Ireland.

17/02/2026: Starting February 2026, SEAI home energy grants are getting a major boost. The SEAI has increased funding for heat pumps and attic and cavity wall insulation, and has introduced several new measures.

New updates include:

• Windows and doors: A brand-new grant category available from 2 March up to €4,000
• Heat pumps: Increased maximum up to €12,500 (from €6,500)
• Attic insulation: Increased maximum amount to €2,000 for detached and €1,100 for apartments
• Cavity wall insulation: Increase grant to max €1,800. From March, you can apply for a second measure even if you’ve used a grant before
• First-time buyers: Access to higher fixed rates for attic insulation from 2 March
• Welfare support: Increased fixed-amount grants for those on qualifying payments