With new winter electricity rates recently announced by the province, and a second wave of the pandemic underway in our city, it's important to understand what options and support are available to you should you need them.
We realize that some of our customers may be experiencing financial uncertainty during these difficult times, and we want you to know that we are here to help. Whether it’s through financial assistance programs, or finding an easier way to manage your payments or account, we want to give you the choice and flexibility to manage your electricity bills so you can focus on more important things.
Financial assistance programs
The provincial government recently revised the eligibility requirements for residents and small business customers looking to participate in the COVID-19 Energy Assistance Programs. Both CEAP programs are meant to help customers catch up on their energy bills and resume regular payments by providing them with a one-time bill credit. If you didn’t qualify before, you may now!
Hydro Ottawa also offers numerous other financial programs, so be sure to see what other relief is available.
Additional support for small businesses
The Ontario government is providing $600 million in relief to support eligible businesses significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic with fixed costs, including property taxes, hydro and natural gas bills.
Starting November 16, businesses that were required to shut down or significantly restrict services due to provincial public health measures announced on October 9 (modified Stage 2 restrictions) can apply for temporary property tax and energy cost rebates directly to the province through a single, online application portal.
Equal monthly payments
Did you know? You can even out your electricity bill payments over a 12-month period with our Equal Monthly Payment Plan. To take advantage of making 12 predictable and equal monthly payments over the course of the next year, just register online for MyAccount. If you already have an account, simply login and select “Register for a Payment Plan.”
Payment arrangements
If you’re currently behind on your electricity bills, please contact us. We offer payment arrangements in order to provide customers with more time to pay outstanding balances on their account.
Energy tips
From lighting to heating, energy-saving tips can help you manage your home and business energy use. Take a few moments to learn about some easy things you can do to help lower your energy usage and your bill.
More than ever, this is a time to band together and move forward. It’s a challenging period for many, but Hydro Ottawa will do everything we can to help customers get through this. If you’re concerned about your account, connect with us online or by telephone at 613 738-6400.
Our focus hasn’t changed: we are always here to assist and provide options to our customers in ways that best meet their individual circumstances and energy needs.