With another province-wide shutdown looming on Boxing Day, the Ontario government has announced temporary relief on the cost of electricity bills while asking people to hunker down in their homes.
Associate Minister of Energy and Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker announced during a provincial government press conference at Queen’s Park on Tuesday that electricity prices will be held at the off-peak rate of 8.5 cents per kilowatt-hour starting Jan. 1, 2021.
Walker says this temporary rate will be available 24 hours per day, seven days a week for a 28-day period. It will apply to all time-of-use and tiered customers, and be automatically applied to bills of all residential, small business and farm customers who pay regulated rates.
“We’re doing this to help minimize financial burden and to support you, while we’re asking you to stay at home,” Walker says.
Walker notes the Ontario government also requested the Ontario Energy Board implement changes to the Covid-19 Energy Assistance Program to make it available to more families, businesses and registered charities.
“We are simplifying who qualifies for the program,” explains Walker. “If you’re behind on your electricity or natural gas bill, then you will be eligible to start applying in January.”
According to a news release from the provincial government, a residential customer can receive up to $750 to help cover their electricity bill and an additional $750 for their natural gas bill. Small businesses can receive up to $1500 for each.
