Running your Christmas tree lights for two weeks could cost you under a euro - or over €20, depending on what type of bulbs you’re using.
A study of the country’s seven main energy firms has found variations of up to 66% between what they charge for powering the Yuletide showpiece for 14 days.
Electric Ireland rated the cheapest at €12.52 for a set of traditional Christmas blinkers, while Flogas was the dearest at €20.01.
But far bigger savings are on offer for those who ditch their old incandescent tree lights and get new ones which have LED bulbs instead.
This saw the €12.52 charge with Electric Ireland drop to just under 39c for two weeks.
Meanwhile, the most expensive Flogas fee fell from €20.01 to 62c for a fortnight.
Other suppliers checked were SSE Airtricity (€13.95 vs 44c), Energia (€14.01 vs 44c), Bord Gais (€13.94 vs 44c), Prepay Power (€13.35 vs 42c) and Pinergy (€13.93 vs 44c).
The vast differences illustrate the savings available by replacing older lightbulbs with new, more efficient LED ones.
Study authors CasinoSource said: “While we have tallied the figures for two weeks, there is a high likelihood people will be lighting up their Christmas trees for a lot longer which would further drive up the price.
“Then there are the outdoor lights that need to be factored in too, so really this is the bare minimum it will cost a household. While it might be beneficial for Flo Gas customers to shop around for a new provider next year, a switch from incandescent bulbs to LEDs is what will really save you money in the long run, and not just on your Christmas tree but other household appliances too.”
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