EirGrid

Suppliers

Electricity suppliers sell electricity to customers (domestic, commercial, or industrial). They use the transmission system operated by EirGrid and distribution system operated by ESB Networks.

Becoming a Supplier

To become a supplier of electricity in Ireland you need to complete the following steps.

Obtain an Electricity Supply Licence

You should obtain an electricity supply licence from the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU). The CRU licence ensures that suppliers follow all the necessary customer protection and safety regulations. 

To find out more about the process of applying for a supply licence, please visit the licensing section of CRU website.

Access the Transmission System

This process is managed and administered by EirGrid as Transmission System Operator (TSO). Access to the Transmission System entails execution of the TUoS Agreement for Suppliers. 

To initiate this process, please complete the below TUoS Agreement Application Form and contact TUoSApplications@eirgrid.com.

Access the Distribution System

If you require access to the distribution system, the process is managed and administered by ESB Networks as Distribution System Operator (DSO). Contact ESB Networks for further information.

Become a Party to the Trading and Settlement Code

All electricity suppliers must be parties to the Trading and Settlement code through party and unit registration with the Single Electricity Market Operator (SEM-O).

System Charges

Suppliers with demand customers connected to the transmission system are subject to Transmission Use of System (TUoS) charges.

Suppliers with demand customers connected to the distribution system are subject to Distribution Use of System (DUoS) charges in addition to Transmission Use of System (TUoS) charges.

Grid Code

Suppliers who have signed a Use of System Agreement are required to comply with the Grid Code. 

The Grid Code is the technical document which establishes the rules governing the operation, maintenance and development of the transmission system. 

It also sets out the procedures for governing the actions of all transmission system users. 

Meter Registration System Operator

Meter Registration System Operator (MRSO) is a "ring-fenced" function within ESB Networks. It is responsible for the Change of Supplier process and the processing/aggregation of meter data required to support Trading & Settlement in the competitive electricity market.