Changes to Electricity Pricing and Disconnection Ban Take Effect May 1: United Way
Time-of-Use electricity rates in Ontario change May 1, with expanded off-peak hours. The winter disconnection ban also ends, affecting overdue accounts.
The United Way of Bruce Grey is advising local residents of two important changes affecting electricity customers in the region, both taking effect May 1, 2025: updated Time-of-Use (TOU) electricity pricing and the end of the province’s annual winter disconnection ban for residential customers.
The annual winter disconnection ban, which protects residential electricity users from shutoffs between November and April, expires on April 30. Customers with overdue bills may begin receiving disconnection notices, effective May 1.
Low-income households facing difficulties are encouraged to call 211 to connect with available energy support programs.
In addition to the change in disconnection policy, summer TOU electricity rates come into effect on May 1, with revised pricing and expanded off-peak hours. According to the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), off-peak pricing will apply for longer evening periods and more weekend hours, offering consumers greater flexibility to shift energy use to lower-cost times of day.
The new TOU rate periods, as outlined by the OEB, are:
Off-peak: 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays, and all day on weekends and holidays — lowest rate
Mid-peak: 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays — slightly reduced
On-peak: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays — highest rate
The United Way of Bruce Grey, which provides financial literacy and utility assistance in the region, is reminding residents of the value of understanding electricity pricing.
Executive Director Francesca Dobbyn said, “The cost of living continues to be a major concern for our communities. Understanding when electricity is cheapest allows families to make smarter energy choices, saving money that can go toward essentials like food, rent, or transportation.”
Residents are also advised to watch for scams targeting utility customers, which often increase around the end of the winter ban period.
Consumers can choose between Time-of-Use and Tiered pricing plans. To compare and select the most suitable option for your household, or for more information on current electricity rates, visit the Ontario Energy Board at www.oeb.ca.
For local energy assistance or support with overdue bills, call 211 to connect with regional programs.