Protecting Energy Consumers
How the Ontario Energy Board Works For You
Nancy Marconi
May 17, 2017
Why the OEB matters to you
• Independent regulator of gas and electricity
• Protect consumers’ interests
• Ensure consumers have information
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OEB Mandate
Protect
Consumers
Set Rates
License Energy
Companies
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Monitor Utility
and Market
Performance
Engage and
Empower
Consumers
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How We Protect Consumers
Rights under Consumer
Charter include:
• safe and reliable service
• accurate and timely bills
• fair disconnection and
reconnection practices
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How We Protect Consumers
Responsibilities under
Consumer Charter:
• Paying bills on time
• Providing security
deposits
• Allowing access to
equipment
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How We Engage Consumers
• OEB’s Consumer Panel
• OEB Review of Customer Service Rules
• New OEB Website
• OEB Community Meetings
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Regulating Rates
• 112 major rate applications since 2009
• Average request for rate increase cut by 38%
• Utilities rarely get what they ask for
• 2% growth annually in average distribution
rates
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Setting Electricity Prices
• One year forecast of costs
• RPP prices set May and November
• Forecast looks at
• Cost adjustment for previous periods
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Time-of-Use Rates
• Applies to most residential and small
business consumers
• Reflects daily changes in cost of electricity
• Encourages use during low-cost periods
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Additional Help
LEAP – up to $500 for electricity and gas bills and $600 for electrically heated
homes
OESP – Monthly credits usually $45 to $75 a $68 to $113 for unique needs
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Questions?