Software issues are to delay the launch of the all-Ireland electricity market, which plans on saving consumers and businesses EU€200million.

The electricity market, which was due to launch on the 23 May 2018, has been designed to reduce the energy costs in Ireland and boost efficiency.

However, on Tuesday, the Integrated Single Electricity Market (ISEM) committee, who is overseeing its launch, confirmed that it won’t take place until the 1 October 2018.

The committee commented: “This additional period is seen as essential to allow for residual IT system issues to be resolved and for a longer period of market testing and trialing that will ensure the arrangements for the ISEM go-live are effective.”

The delay follows a number of meetings between the grid operators on both sides of the border.

Written by Leah Alger