When you compare tariffs on Kilowatt.ie, you will see various payment methods listed. Below is an explanation of what each means.
Direct Debit
Direct Debit is an automated payment method where your electricity supplier withdraws the bill amount directly from your bank account, typically shortly after your bill is issued. It is widely considered the most convenient way to manage your energy costs and is highly encouraged by suppliers, who often offer their highest tariff discounts to customers who select this option. Many suppliers also offer “level pay” Direct Debits, which spread your estimated annual energy costs into equal, predictable monthly instalments to help you avoid larger bills during the winter months.
Card
Card payments allow you to clear your electricity balance using a valid credit or debit card. You can usually make these payments instantly through your energy supplier’s online account portal, via their dedicated mobile app, or sometimes by calling their automated 24-hour telephone payment line. This is a highly flexible option for customers who prefer to manually control exactly when their payments are made each billing cycle, though it generally does not attract the same built-in discounts as setting up a Direct Debit.
Postal Cheque
For customers who prefer traditional banking, you can pay your electricity bill by writing a postal cheque. To use this method, you simply make the cheque payable to your specific electricity supplier, detach the payment slip from the bottom of your paper bill, and mail both documents to the postal address provided on your invoice. If you choose this route, you should always mail your payment several working days before the due date to allow sufficient time for postage and manual processing.
Payzone
Payzone allows you to pay your electricity bills or top up a Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) meter in person at thousands of Post Offices and shops across Ireland. Simply bring your barcoded paper bill, payment letter, or prepayment card to any shop displaying the purple Payzone logo, and the cashier will process your payment using cash or a card.
Bank Transfer
A Bank Transfer allows you to send money directly from your personal bank account to your electricity supplier’s bank account. This is typically completed through your bank’s online banking website or mobile app by setting up the energy supplier as a designated payee, using their IBAN and your specific energy account number as the payment reference. This method gives you complete, hands-on control over the transfer amount and timing, though you must remember to initiate the transfer early enough for the funds to clear before the bill deadline.
MyBills.ie
MyBills.ie is an online payment portal operated by An Post that allows you to manage and pay various household utility bills from a single dashboard. Once you register for an account on the platform, you can add your electricity supplier as a registered biller and make payments online using your debit card or directly from your bank account.