NEWS...
Time-of-Use Implementation
January 9, 2012—Over the next few months, Enersource customers in Ward 10 will receive information packages designed to educate them about the Ontario Government's mandated electricity Time-of-Use (TOU) plan. All residential customers in Mississauga will be on TOU by the spring. Small businesses will also be transitioned over to the new rates starting in April 2012.
By way of background, all residences and small businesses in Mississauga have been equipped with smart meters. These meters read the amount of electricity used and the time of day/day of the week it is consumed. Electricity prices will now be calculated using the following winter criteria:
- On Peak — the cost of energy is highest (10.8 cents/kWh): 7am - 11am; 5pm - 7pm
- Mid-Peak — the cost of energy is moderate (9.2 cents/kWh): 11am - 5 pm
- Off-Peak — the cost of energy is lowest (6.2 cents/kWh): 7 pm – 7 am, Weekends & Holidays
TOU rates are designed to encourage consumers to manage electricity use by shifting household tasks to lower rate periods. This may benefit customers while helping the province smooth out "peak demand" periods, which will result in a more efficient electricity system for all Ontarians.
How will customers know if they are on TOU rates? We will notify them in advance of this transition. For example: When they receive the "Are you ready?" brochure, they will start to be billed on TOU in two months. Then they will receive an "Important Notice About Your Electricity Rates" that advises that they are now on TOU and will receive their first TOU bill in two months. Followed by "How Can I Shift My Electricity Use?" that accompanies their first TOU bill.
To support the implementation, Enersource will continue to host information sessions/booths at libraries and community centres in the area throughout January, February and March to help inform customers about the transition. To date, the response to our various community events has been well received.
We will also be doing some extensive advertising in the Mississauga News. If you have inquiries about your TOU bill, please contact Enersource's Customer Service Department at 905-273-7425.