Temporary relief on hydro bills

New legislation in Ontario has been passed, relieving those with unpaid  hydro bills from being disconnected during winter months.

The Ontario Energy Board banned electricity companies from disconnecting customers for non-payments from Feb. 23 to April 30.

Enwin Utilities’ manager of corporate communications Barbara Peirce Marshall said the company is a regulated industry. Enwin is complying with the new legislature and is trying to help their customers in any way.

One concern for Enwin customers is the buildup of debt when the winter months are over at the end of April. Customers would be responsible for those bills that were not paid during the winter months.

“39 Enwin customers were disconnected so far this winter, however many of those properties were vacant,” said Marshall.

While hydro prices have gone up in Ontario, Marshall said Enwin has prevented fluctuating rates by finding efficiencies wherever they could, and by managing the company well. 

“Enwin rates have been with very minor fluctuations, up and down around 20 per cent of the bill,” said Marshall.

Special education teacher at H.J. Lassaline Catholic Elementary Catholic School John Sobhi has lived in his home for four years. Sobhi said he was paying about $250-$300 in hydro the last few years.

“After some of the changes were put into place, this number has since doubled.” Sobhi believes the prices for hydro should not be so high, thus leaving families struggling to pay.

The new legislation from the OEB was quickly passed. This will offer temporary relief for those struggling to pay their hydro bills.