How to Save on Electricity in Mississauga

It's officially summer (we know this not only because it's June 21, but because it's been partially sunny for at least three days in a row now) and that means that your disposable income should be going to beer, wine and travel—not your hydro bill.

For that reason, Alectra Utilities (formerly Enersource) is reminding Mississauga residents and small business owners that new electricity prices kicked in last month and that there are some peak usage times that people might want to be aware of.

As you probably know, electricity use typically peaks during the hottest part of the afternoon, when air conditioners are running on high. On-peak hours are during the middle of the day, usually 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

As far as cheaper times go, more affordable prices are in effect all day on weekends and holidays. Between May 1 and Oct. 31, the more affordable off-peak hours are between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m on weekdays.

If you're using the most hydro during off-peak hours and still struggling with high bills, you might qualify for the Ontario Electricity Support Program. According to Alectra, residents enrolled in the program can enjoy $35 to $75 off their electricity bills every month.

Alectra says the Ontario Electricity Support Program has increased credit amounts by 50 per cent to eligible lower-income electricity customers, meaning more more households can now qualify. As for how much you can get back, the amount will vary based on household income. If you live in a two-person household that brings in $30,000 a year, you could qualify for $40 off your monthly bill.

Over the past few years, there's been a great deal of talk about how unaffordable hydro has become in Ontario. For that reason, the provincial government recently announced that electricity bills will be lowered by 25 per cent on average for residential consumers by summer 2017 and that rate increases will be held to inflation for four years.

So although rates are still high, there could be some relief in sight—and there are a few things you can do to save money in the interim.