As we enter our tenth week of self-isolation, I think it’s fair to say that as a community, we have proven just how resilient we all are. That’s not to say it’s been easy. In fact, we know that it’s been hard for those working courageously on the front lines in essential roles, and as time goes by, we know that many will continue to need further financial support and relief.
Earlier this month, we welcomed the provincial government’s decision to extend the lowest (off-peak) rate for electricity until the end of May. Like you, we are waiting for further information about what comes next. As soon as we hear, we will let you know through our social media channels and on our dedicated COVID-19 web page. In the meantime, we are working closely with the government, industry partners, the City of Ottawa and local agencies to help however we can.
We understand that many of our customers continue to work from home at this time, and as a result, we have adjusted our operations to minimize power interruptions and reduce the inconvenience it may cause. Thankfully, the weather has been cooperating this spring and we haven’t had to face too many unplanned emergencies.
Over the coming weeks, and as we adjust to the situation, you may see our crews out in your neighbourhood performing work required to connect new customers, maintain our infrastructure, and keep the system running to ensure a safe and reliable supply of electricity at a time when our customers need it most.
Let me assure you that the health and safety of our employees remains a top priority, and we are taking every precaution while they are on the job so they can go home to their families at the end of each day.
Mostly, I just want you to know that we are here with you throughout this. As your local electricity distribution company, we believe that everyone should have access to affordable and reliable electricity all year long. That’s why we do what we do, and it’s the driving force behind the decisions we make every day. Many of our crews and employees came from smaller municipal utilities like Casselman, Gloucester, Goulbourn, Kanata and Nepean before amalgamating with Ottawa Hydro and into the company we are today. We never lost our community roots. And in times like this, I see them only strengthening.
I hope that you, your family and all your loved ones are safe, happy and healthy.