As well as domestic consumers we also receive referrals for micro-business consumers.

A micro-business must meet one of the following criteria:

• Has fewer than 10 full-time equivalent employees and an annual turnover or annual balance sheet total of less than €2 million a year

• OR Uses less than 293,000 kWh of gas per annum

• OR Uses less than 100,000 kWh of electricity per annum

Many micro-businesses are owned or run by one person from premises that may include their accommodation. Debts and the threat of disconnection can add enough pressure to stop them trading and cut off their livelihood.

It’s important to remember that a sudden change in the trader’s personal circumstances can heavily impact both their business and family life. Examples of micro-businesses we have helped include pubs, restaurants, hairdressers and corner shops.