There was a slight rise in wholesale energy prices in November, according to the latest Bord Gáis Energy Index.
The index rose 2% last month as a result of a similar increase in wholesale oil prices during the month.
The rise came amid concerns that the continuing unrest in the Middle East and North Africa regions would disrupt global supplies.
The Bord Gáis energy index stood at 152 in November, up 5% on the same time last year.
Today's survey shows that the oil element of the index rose by 2% in November. Bord Gáis said that as well as the tensions in the Middle East and North Africa, oil prices were boosted by the deal on Greek debts and upbeat economic figures from China.
The natural gas element of the index increased by 1% during the month, with UK gas prices up as cold weather led to strong rises in residential demands. Prices were also supported by disruptions to Norwegian supplies.
The coal element of the index rose by 4% in November, the first rise in coal prices in three months. Bord Gáis said that rising gas prices in the US made it more attractive to burn coal to produce power, which means that the US has trimmed its exports to Europe.
Russia - an important source of coal - also experienced problems with shipments to Europe due to a rail car shortage, while Colombian coal exports are going to the US because of increasing demand.
The electricity element of the index saw an increase of 1% last month. Bord Gáis said that higher European coal prices, and wholesale UK gas prices put upward pressure on Irish electricity prices as these commodities are main fuel sources for the production of electricity. It also noted that peak demand is rising, due to the colder winter weather.
