THUNDER BAY — Starting next month, customers of Synergy North who are heavy overnight energy users will have a third option to consider for their electricity pricing plan.
Ontario's new ultra-low overnight price plan will take effect at the utility and a number of other distribution companies across the province on May 1, and will be mandatory for all providers by Nov. 1.
According to a government announcement Tuesday, the plan's rate of 2.4 cents per kilowatt-hour between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. is 67 per cent lower than the current off-peak rate.
But the savings are modest, as customers selecting this plan will pay a higher on-peak rate in exchange for savings overnight.
"If you're someone who's consuming electricity mostly overnight, this would be a program you would like to explore, but if your consumption is mostly during the day, you would probably want to stick with the time-of-use or the tiered program," said Leslie Racco, a spokesperson for Synergy North.
Racco explained that the ultra-low overnight plan is "really designed for customers who have an electric vehicle ... who would be plugging in and charging their car overnight."
Energy Minister Todd Smith has estimated that the ultra-low rate could save customers up to $90 a year.
The government said that besides EV users, it may benefit shift workers and people who heat their homes with electricity.
The ultra-low overnight price plan provisions are as follows:
- overnight rate 2.4 cents per kWh daily from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.
- mid-peak rate 10.2 cents per kWh weekdays 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- on-peak rate 24.0 cents per kWh weekdays 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- weekend off-peak rate 7.4 cents per kWh
Customers can use the Ontario Energy Board's bill calculator to determine how the three different rate plans would affect their energy bills.
Racco said Synergy North customers interested in switching to the new plan or learning more about it are encouraged to visit its website or contact the utility directly.
"Just think about your energy consumption. Think about your day and your lifestyle, and choose the program that's best for you."
Synergy North will be making its own announcement about the new plan closer to the start date of May 1.
