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Electricity Retailers
Deregulation of the electricity industry means, you our customer, have a greater choice in where you buy your electricity. Because of new provincial legislation, local electric utilities have become local distribution companies (LDC's) that deliver the electricity to their customers. They are no longer the only suppliers of the electricity they deliver.
A number of energy marketing companies, or electricity retailers, have entered the marketplace. You can buy your electricity from those companies and it will be delivered by the new LDC to your home.
The local LDC still owns and maintain all the wires, poles, and distribution transformers in the city. Because it will continue as a monopoly, (it is simply not feasible to have competing companies stringing their own wires on every street), it will be subject to regulations set by the Ontario Energy Board, including approval of "delivery" charges for electricity.
Do I have to buy my electricity from an electricity retailer?
No. You can continue to buy your electricity from the local LDC, which is referred to as the "default supplier." Selecting a new electricity retailer is an option, not an obligation.
If I buy my electricity from an electricity retailer, is the local distribution company obligated to deliver it to my home or business?
Yes, the LDC must deliver your electricity supply to your home or business regardless of where you purchased it.
If I buy my electricity from a retailer is there anything I should be aware of?
Yes, a number of things:
• First, electricity retailers must be licensed by the Ontario Energy Board and are subject to the "Electricity Retailer Code of Conduct". The code sets out conditions and standards for electricity retailers regarding customer information, contracts and complaints resolution. (TheCode is available on the OEB web site at www.oeb.gov.on.ca)·
• There is no rush. You can sign at any time. Look around and compare not just the unit price, but other costs and services provided.
• Marketers must be properly identified when approaching you for a sale. Look for photo ID and contact information.
• If you do sign a contract, get a copy of it. The contract is a legally binding document. However, you can cancel it within 10 days of signing it, by giving notice, in writing.
Will staff at the new LDC still answer my electricity questions?
Yes, they will. You can address your questions concerning the availability of power, electricity deregulation and Ontario Energy Board electricity codes and licenses, to our LDC staff. As well, you will be talking to local personnel.
If you buy from an electricity retailer and have questions regarding your electricity consumption, these questions may be passed on to your retailer.
What must I do if I want to stay with the LDC as my electricity supplier?
Nothing. Your local distribution company will continue to provide your electricity, as your local utility does now.
Whom do I call if I have any more questions?
Call your local utility or local distribution company.
Know who is at your door. Note the name of the retailer and the agent’s name. If you have a complaint, the OEB will need this information.
• Ask for a business card. Door-to-door energy salespeople are required to give you a card which identifies both the retailer and the agent.
• Shut the door on anyone who refuses to clearly identify themselves.
• Your utility bill contains valuable information. Do not share a bill or utility account number unless you are prepared to accept an offer.
• Understand the price and terms of the contract. For electricity, compare the offer to the current legislated price per kilowatt hour.
• Carefully consider any gifts, cheques or other promotions being offered. Make sure you understand the overall cost of the contract.
• Do you already have a contract with an electricity retailer? Your retailer can ask you to revoke an existing agreement and sign a new contract, even if the price is higher than what you are already paying. Check your utility bill to make sure you know who your supplier is and what you are currently paying.
• If you believe you have been misled, mistreated or threatened, write down as best you can what was said and contact the Ontario Energy Board as soon as possible after the incident.
The Ontario Energy Board can be reached toll free at 1-877-632-2727 or in Toronto at 416-314-2455. The website is www.oeb.gov.on.ca
For further information, contact Tom Park at the Ontario Energy Board, 416-440-7697.
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