The number of low-voltage consumers switching electricity supplier doubled in May, compared to a month earlier, despite the energy ministry’s imminent energy-crisis measures to be introduced July 1, suggesting consumers are panic-stricken and lack composure for a wait-and-see approach.

Latest electricity market figures covering May, still unofficial, showed a further rise in the number of households resorting to the universal electricity supply service, covering the needs of black-listed consumers who have been shunned by suppliers over payment failures.

The number of low-voltage consumers who have resorted to this universal electricity supply service, which also rose in April, by 5,000, now exceed a total of 170,000, May’s unofficial data showed.

By law, the electricity market’s top five suppliers, based on market share, contribute to the universal supply service. Higher tariffs are charged.