Spring often brings a sense of renewal - longer days, fresh starts and more time spent with family or friends. But we also know that life doesn’t always go according to plan. Unexpected expenses or changes in circumstances can make managing monthly bills more challenging.
If you’re facing financial pressures, you’re not alone. As your community utility, we want you to know that support is available.
Several programs are designed to help make electricity more affordable for eligible customers, offering some financial relief and peace of mind so you can focus on what matters most - your family and your well-being.
Recently, the income eligibility thresholds for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) and the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) increased by up to 35 per cent, meaning more households may now qualify for support.
Here are a few of the programs that may be able to help:
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP)
LEAP provides emergency financial assistance to eligible low-income customers who are struggling to pay their electricity bills. If you’re experiencing a temporary financial emergency, this program may help cover a portion of your bill to prevent service disruption.
Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP)
The Ontario Electricity Support Program offers eligible low-income customers a fixed monthly credit that is applied directly to their electricity bill. The credit amount depends on factors such as household income and the number of people living in the home.
Energy Affordability Program (EAP)
The Energy Affordability Program helps qualified homeowners, tenants and social or assisted housing providers improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Depending on eligibility, the program may provide energy-saving upgrades such as insulation, energy-efficient lighting or appliances, helping households reduce energy use and lower costs over time.
In addition to these programs, there are other solutions available to help eligible customers manage electricity bills and avoid disconnection. For example, qualified low-income customers are not required to provide or maintain a security deposit. Arrears Payment Agreements (APA) may also be available, giving customers additional time to pay outstanding balances through manageable payment arrangements.
If you’re experiencing financial challenges, we encourage you to explore the support options that may be available to you. Programs like LEAP, OESP and the Energy Affordability Program are designed to help provide relief when it’s needed most.
Even if you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s worth taking a few minutes to learn more. You may discover support that can help make managing your electricity bills a little easier.
Visit our Financial Assistance page to learn more about available programs, eligibility requirements and how to apply. Our team is committed to helping ensure every member of our community has access to reliable electricity and the support they need when life takes an unexpected turn.