The warning in today's Sunday papers comes amid reports that network operators are getting bonuses of up to 15 per cent.
The Sunday Business Post claims the two companies responsible for the country's electricity network are in line for spending increases of 1.8 billion over the next five years.
That means a five per cent hike in bills for families and businesses over the same period.
Much of the increase will go toward new power lines from Eirgrid, while 500 million will be spent by the ESB supplying homes with smart meters.
However a report for the Commission for Energy Regulation criticises bonus payments to staff at Eirgird who got up to 15 per cent – even during the recession. Their average pay is now 97-thousand Euro
ESB meanwhile pay on average 80-thousand.
ESB Networks say it is inappropriate to comment while the public consultation on electricity charges is ongoing and Eirgrid says it's taking a 'holistic approach' by increasing staff numbers and reducing the number of outside contractors.
