The energy regulator has said that measures aimed at protecting domestic customers from the impact of high prices are to remain in place for the winter.
A disconnection moratorium for registered vulnerable customers will run from November 1st until March 31st.
While the disconnection moratorium for all other domestic customers will continue from December 9th until January 17th.
The Commission for the Regulation of Utilities said that although prices have fallen and more reductions are expected, domestic electricity and gas tariffs remain higher than in January 2021.
Other measures that will remain in place include keeping the debt repayment level on Pay-As-You-Go meters at a maximum level of 10%.
Suppliers will also have to continue to automatically place customers with a financial hardship meter on the most economic tariff available.
Energy providers will also have to continue to offer customers more flexible payment plans.
However, they will be extended to a minimum of 18 months for this year instead of 24 months to encourage greater engagement by customers with suppliers, the CRU said.
The regulator also said that suppliers must actively promote the vulnerable customer register and the protections it offers.
They will also have to promote how customers can have a 'nominated representative' manage their account and how customers can sign-up for level payment plans.
"The CRU is aware of the challenges that high energy prices and arrears, continue to have on customers," said Karen Trant, Director of Customer Policy and Protection.
"Our analysis shows that the enhanced measures have had a significant impact on protecting customers during winter 2024."
"As a result, many of the measures will remain in place until summer 2025, after which a further review will be carried out."
"We will continue to monitor the impact on customers, including price trends and the levels of arrears over the coming months."
The CRU said arrears levels are trending at historically high levels.
But an analysis it carried out also found that while moratoriums protect customers from disconnections, they do discourage some customers from engaging with their supplier in terms of reducing debt.
