The province is temporarily cutting electricity rates to support people who are stuck at home during the Ontario-wide lockdown.
Starting January 1, the government will be holding hydro rates for 28 days.
Electricity will be provided at the off-peak rate of 8.5 cents per kilowatt-hour for all time-of-use and tiered customers, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
This new pricing will be automatically applied to all residential, small business and many farm customer’s bills.
“As we enter a province-wide shutdown, our government is ensuring that all households have stable and predictable electricity bills when they need it most,” said Energy Minister Greg Rickford. “Staying home means using more electricity, especially during the day when electricity prices are usually higher. We will continue to support hardworking families and small businesses doing their part by staying home.”
“We are asking people to make greater sacrifices to help contain this deadly virus, whether that’s staying home or asking their employees to work from home where possible,” added Premier Doug Ford. “In response, our government is providing people and businesses with additional financial relief to help them get through this very difficult period.”
Families, small businesses and registered charities who have an overdue electricity or natural gas bill can also apply to the province’s COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).
Residential customers can get up to $750 for hydro bill relief and up to an additional $750 for any overdue natural gas bill. Small businesses can receive up to $1,500 for each.
Customers will be able to apply through their local utility, click here for more info.
