THUNDER BAY - The province is making it a little more affordable to stay at home amid the COVID-19 crisis by implementing off-peak electricity rates for all those on time-of-use pricing.
Premier Doug Ford and Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines Greg Rickford made the announcement on Tuesday from Queen’s Park.
“This announcement represents an investment of $160 million to hold time-of-use electricity rates to the off-peak rates,” Rickford said. “We are making this investment to provide needed relief to Ontario families and businesses who are doing the right thing and staying home.”
Those under time-of-use pricing will pay the 10.1 cent per kilowatt-hour rate at all times of day. Farms and small businesses are also included in the off-peak rates. The Emergency Order was issued under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act
“You will pay the lowest rates possible for 24-hours a day seven days a week,” Ford said. “We are leaving more money in your pockets, money you can use to look after your family or support your business.”
“We are making things a little bit easier during hard times and supporting everyone who is following the rules and doing their part and staying home.”
According to Synergy North, mid-peak pricing averaged 14.4 cents per kilowatt-hour and 20.8 cents per kilowatt-hour at peak times. The new off-peak rates will reflect a savings of approximately $15 per month for residential customers.
“We are pleased to see the province and industry respond to the needs of our customers during these difficult and unprecedented times,” said Robert Mace, president and CEO of Synergy North.
The new pricing will be in effect for the next 45 days and there is no application process, the savings will be reflected automatically on electricity bills.
The province also announced a disconnection ban for customers, which will be extended to customers beyond the July 31, 2020 date.
Synergy North is advising customers who have concerns about paying their electricity bill to inquire about extended bill payments by contacting their customer service line at 1-833-428-1451 or email at customerservice@synergynorth.ca.
