The energy regulator has blocked an 'opt-out' option for the €100 credit scheme.
There had been suggestions that wealthier households may choose to return or refuse the credit as they are better able to manage higher utility bills.
The credit is due to be applied to all household electricity bills in March, but the Iish Independent reports that a suggestion from Minister Michael McGrath to allow better off households to decline it, was ruled out on the grounds it may delay the process.
