Energy Retailers

an older orange brick home with a white porch, gray steps and a dark brown wooden door

Electricity customers in Ontario are free to choose their provider.

If an energy retailer approaches you there are some important things to know:

  • Energy retailers are not affiliated with Festival Hydro Inc.
  • The salesperson is required to supply you with a business card and present their company ID for you to verify.
  • Your utility bill contains personal information and is not required unless you make the decision to sign with the retailer.
  • Prices offered by energy retailers are not regulated by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB).
  • A contract with an energy retailer is not guaranteed to equate to savings.

More information can be found below and also on the OEB website.

What if I choose Festival Hydro?

When you choose Festival Hydro you are able to select your price structure:

Time-of-Use

Time-of-Use pricing sets different rates for the time of day that electricity is being used. The TOU rates are updated annually on May 1st and November 1st. The times of day for electricity usage are categorized as:

  • On-Peak rates apply to the time of day when electricity is in high demand;
  • Mid-Peak applies to the times during the day when there is medium demand; and
  • Off-Peak applies to the time of day when electricity demand is at its lowest.

Under TOU pricing the lowest rates are at night and on weekends. Off-peak pricing also applies to statutory holidays.

Tiered Pricing

Tiered pricing allows you to use a certain amount of electricity each month at a lower price and once that limit is exceeded a higher price applies. The limit is adjusted seasonally to reflect changes in electricity usage patterns.

These RPP Tiered rates are subject to change on May 1st and November 1st of each year.

 

More information can be found by clicking the links below:

Learn what to expect when a private energy retailer representative knocks on your door

Licensed energy retailers in your area

Ontario Energy Board’s Bill Calculator

Price comparison for Electricity Contracts

 

What if I choose a private energy retailer?

If you choose to sign a contract with one of the companies that have been licensed by the Ontario Energy Board as a retailer they will provide a fixed rate for the "Electricity Charge" noted on your bill. Be aware that all the other charges such as Delivery, Regulatory, etc. will still be applicable and are not included in the fixed rate provided by the electricity retailer. Additionally, by agreeing to a fixed rate for service you will pay that rate regardless of whether the price of electricity increases or decreases.

 

More information can be found by clicking the links below:

Learn what to expect when a private energy retailer representative knocks on your door

Licensed energy retailers in your area

Ontario Energy Board’s Bill Calculator

Price comparison for Electricity Contracts