Time-of-Use FAQ
The Arrival of Time-of-Use Electricity Prices in Burlington
Q: What is Time-of-Use (TOU) billing?
A: In a move mandated by the Province of Ontario and the Ontario Energy Board, every Burlington Hydro residential and small commercial customer will have been switched to Time-of-Use (TOU) pricing by September 2012. Burlington’s roll out of TOU began in January 2012. Like everyone across Ontario, Burlington Hydro Inc. customers are switching to TOU electricity prices as part of the Ontario government’s plan to create a culture of energy conservation in the province. The switch to this new approach to electricity costs means all Burlington households and most institutions and businesses will be charged different rates, depending on the day of week, time of day and the season.
Q: When will TOU billing begin for customers of Burlington Hydro?
A: Beginning January, 2012, customers are being migrated to TOU billing, in groups, in accordance with Burlington Hydro billing cycles, which vary by customer. Every Burlington Hydro residential customer and small commercial customer will have been switched to TOU pricing by September 2012. Customers were notified of their specific TOU start date in blling inserts issued in the Fall of 2011. This phased-in approach to the billing ensures customers will not be billed based on both the old and new pricing on the same electricity bill to avoid confusion.
Q: Why was there a delay to the start-date of TOU in Burlington?
A: Although the planned start date for the Time-of-Use phase-in was July 4th, 2011, Burlington Hydro received Ontario Energy Board approval for a delay to allow for fine-tuning of the data collection system.
Q: How can I prepare for Time-of-Use?
A: Introduce conservation initiatives specifically for business. Target equipment known to use the largest amount of electricity such as air conditioners, electrical heating, space and water heating, as well as ovens, dryers and lighting. Implement processes to turn off office equipment and lighting when not is use. Capitalize on new equipment that automates power management. Take advantage of incentive programs to make your facility more energy efficient.
Q: Where I can learn more about conservation programs?
A: Burlington Hydro will continue to help its customers manage their electricity use and costs by offering a wide range of conservation programs. To learn more about conservation programs and ways that you can power down and save, visit www.burlingtonhydro.com.
Q: I am with a fixed-term contract with an electricity retailer. Will I be affected by Time-of-Use billing?
A: Time-of-Use prices do not apply for electricity customers on a fixed-term contract with an electricity retailer.
Smart Meters
Q: How do I read my Smart Meter?
A: Your Smart Meter displays the following pieces of information in sequence:
- a segment test to ensure the system is functioning
- your accumulated kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption in a six-digit format
- a network address number for utility use.
Q:Is my usage information secure and will it remain confidential?
A: Yes. Ontario's electricity distribution companies are required, by law, to ensure that the Smart Meters and communication networks that are put into place are equipped with security features to prevent unauthorized access. We must also comply with federal laws regarding the privacy, protection and disclosure of personal information.
