Regulation - LGIC

Transitioning from Global Adjustment Refinancing to a More Transparent On-Bill Rebate

Regulation Number(s):
363/16
364/16
275/04
Instrument Type:
Regulation - LGIC
Bill or Act:
Ontario Rebate for Electricity Consumers Act, 2016
Summary of Proposal:
The Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines (ENDM) is proposing amendments to O. Reg. 363/16 (General), O. Reg. 364/16 (Invoicing Requirements) and 275/04 (Information on Invoices to Low-Volume Consumers of Electricity) as part of the transition to a new, transparent on-bill rebate to replace Global Adjustment (GA) Refinancing effective November 1, 2019. ENDM proposes that the new rebate will be implemented through an expansion of the current 8% Ontario Rebate for Electricity Consumers.

The proposed amendments to O. Reg. 363/16 would define an "eligible account," (i.e., which consumers are eligible for the expanded rebate). The definition of an eligible account would seek to provide further clarity about eligibility, particularly with regard to multi-unit complexes. The proposed amendments would also include other administrative details related to the calculation of the rebate.

The proposed amendments to O. Reg. 364/16 would set out the manner in which the expanded rebate must be shown on invoices, including what the rebate must be labelled on bills and any other requirements related to the presentment of savings. Currently, O. Reg. 364/16 requires that the rebate be labelled "8% Provincial Rebate." The proposed amendments to 275/04 would also set out the manner in which a statement summarizing all electricity rebate support programs would be presented.

A proposed amendment to O. Reg. 363/16 would set out the amount of financial assistance to be provided (i.e., the percentage of the rebate), which is intended to be set at a level that would combine the existing 8% rebate and the benefit provided by GA Refinancing to an average consumer.
Analysis of Regulatory Impact:
To be determined.
Further Information:
Proposal Number:
19-ENDM008
Posting Date:
July 9, 2019
Comments Due Date:
August 16, 2019
Contact Address:
77 Grenville Street
7th Floor
Toronto, Ontario
M7A 2C1