Quick answer
Electric Ireland is the incumbent electricity brand and is familiar to many households. Bord Gáis Energy is often considered by households comparing electricity and gas together.
Neither is automatically cheaper. Compare the actual annual cost for your usage, the standing charge, the discount duration, and what happens when the offer ends.
What to compare
Start with the unit rate and standing charge for electricity. If you also use gas, compare both fuels together and separately because dual fuel convenience does not always mean the lowest annual cost.
Next, check whether the advertised discount is off standard rates and how long it lasts. A 12-month discount can be valuable, but it needs a reminder before expiry.
- Electricity annual cost based on your kWh usage.
- Gas annual cost if you use gas heating or hot water.
- Smart, night saver, EV, or standard meter compatibility.
- Exit fees, billing preferences, and payment method requirements.
What happens after you switch
Your supply continues as normal because the physical network does not change. The new supplier manages the transfer and the old supplier sends a closing bill.
The part people forget is the next renewal. Once the introductory period ends, you may roll onto a higher standard rate unless you renegotiate or switch again.