Time-of-Use Prices

Ontario residents are being switched over to Time-of-Use pricing for their electricity. Horizon Utilities has switched over our residential and small business customers, with the exception of those who pay for their electricity on a contract with an energy retailer. Under this plan, you pay the same amount for electricity no matter what time of day you use it.

With Time-of-Use prices, the cost of electricity varies depending on when you use it. Rates are different depending on the time of the day, day of the week and season of the year (summer and winter). There are three different Time-of-Use prices, currently set at 6.2¢/kWh for off-peak, 10.8¢/kWh for on-peak, 9.2¢/kWh for mid-peak. Prices are reviewed every May 1 and November 1 by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB).

Time-of-Use pricing rewards you for using electricity during low-demand periods whenever possible (reflected in green). These Time-of-Use rates - off-peak, mid-peak and on-peak, will vary between summer and winter. As you can see from the seasonal charts below, the lowest rates are at night, on weekends and statutory holidays.

For a list of holidays, click here

How are Time-of-Use Prices Set?

The Ontario Energy Board reviews the rates based on electricity prices over the previous six months, as well as its forecast of future prices over the next year.

Time-of-Use prices reflect the fact that the cost to provide electricity changes throughout the day. When demand is low, less expensive sources of electricity are used. When demand rises, more expensive forms of electricity production are called upon, making prices higher.

In summer, on-peak prices apply during the middle of the weekday (from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), reflecting the increase in air conditioning use. In winter, on-peak prices apply in the morning (7 to 11 a.m.) and evening (5 to 7 p.m.), when demand ramps up as residential electricity use increases. During weekends and holidays, all hours of the day are off-peak.

How Much Will My Bill Be Under Time-of-Use Rates?

Your electricity bill will provide you with information about how much electricity you are using during the various peak periods. However, in the meantime, if you would like to find out how much electricity your household uses within each Time-of-Use time period, simply access your account online.

Keep in mind that it is important to look at your electricity bills over the longer period. One or two months won't provide the whole picture. You'll likely find that even if you pay a little more during the summer and winter months, you could just as easily save money during the spring and autumn.

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about Time-of-Use rates and your household's energy consumption pattern. Please call our Customer Care Centre during regular business hours at 1-866-458-1236.

Access your account on-line to see your household's actual energy use profile.

 Managing your business' electricity costs (pdf)

Note: If you currently purchase electricity under a contract with a retailer, you will continue to follow the terms and price stated in your contract.