New program to help low-income households

Journal Staff A new program is coming from the Ontario Energy Board that will help low-income residents pay their electricity bills. The Ontario Electricity Support Program will apply ongoing assistance directly to the bills of eligible consumers.

Journal Staff

A new program is coming from the Ontario Energy Board that will help low-income residents pay their electricity bills.

The Ontario Electricity Support Program will apply ongoing assistance directly to the bills of eligible consumers.

Low-income households that apply and qualify will receive credit on their electricity bills based on the number of people living in the home, and their total household income.

For example, one occupant in a home with an annual income below $28,000 would receive $30 a month.

Those whose electricity use is unavoidably higher, such as people who rely on electric heat or medical devices, could receive more support.

First Nation and Métis consumers may also get additional assistance.

Applications will be accepted beginning in mid-October, and are expected to take six to eight weeks to process.

The OEB program comes into effect Jan. 1.

Consumers can apply online, or with the help of some social service agencies.

Visit www.OntarioElectricitySupport.ca for more information and to sign up for email updates.