Powering your farm
If you own or operate a farm, you may have questions about our farm-specific electricity rates or the effects of stray voltage. Learn more about the Regulated Price Plan (RPP), the Ontario Electricity Rebate (OER) and how we can help you address stray voltage.
Changes to your farm account
Contact us if you no longer use your property for farming. If MPAC reclassifies your property, your account will change, and we’ll adjust your billing. We'll help make this transition as smooth as possible.
Customer Choice: Regulated Price Plan (RPP) options
By default, small business customers under 50 kW (which typically includes farms) are automatically enrolled in the RPP. Its prices are set by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) and updated each year on November 1. If you're eligible, you can choose from three rate plan options.
Ontario Electricity Rebate for farms
The Ontario Electricity Rebate (OER) is a provincial credit that lowers electricity costs for eligible customers, including farms. If you qualify, it will appear as a separate line item labelled “Ontario Electricity Rebate” on your monthly Hydro Ottawa bill.
You’ll receive the rebate automatically if:
- Your farm’s electricity peak demand is 50 kW or less, or
- Your annual electricity usage is 250,000 kWh or less
If your farm exceeds these limits, you may still qualify, but you’ll need to submit a form confirming that your property qualifies as a farming business.
If you’re unsure whether you’re receiving the rebate, check your latest Hydro Ottawa bill for “Ontario Electricity Rebate” line item. If it’s not listed and you believe you qualify, contact us or learn more about the OER and how to apply.
Understanding and addressing stray voltage
Stray voltage is low-level electrical current that can occur between surfaces and the earth. Although people rarely feel stray voltage, it can affect livestock.
Sources of stray voltage can include:
- Farm wiring (issues within your own electrical system)
- Utility system (conditions in the main electrical grid)
- Grounding (problems with how electrical systems are grounded)
Identifying potential issues
Signs of stray voltage may be subtle:
- Animals may avoid waterers or feeders.
- Animals may produce less milk, and their growth may be stunted.
How we can help
If you suspect stray voltage, review our Farm Stray Voltage Customer Response Procedure. If you would like us to investigate, call (613) 738-6400. We’ll need your name, address, mailing address and phone number. We’ll also ask for more information regarding the stray voltage on your farm, including any changes in your livestock’s behaviour.
After your call, one of our technicians will contact you to schedule an investigation.
Our process:
Initial check
We examine our distribution system.
On-site testing
We measure the electrical levels on your farm.
Collaboration
We work with you to find the source.
Recommendations
We advise you on your next steps.
If we’re responsible for the stray voltage affecting your farm, we’ll repair our equipment. If your farm’s internal wiring is responsible for the stray voltage, you must take the steps to correct it. A qualified electrician can help you plan and complete this work.
Have more questions?
Visit our FAQs page or contact us for assistance.
