The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) has approved Kingston Hydro’s application for electricity distribution rates beginning January 1, 2023.

As a result of the OEB’s Decision and Rate Order for this rates application, it is estimated that for a typical residential customer with a monthly consumption of 750 kWh, the monthly distribution charge will increase by $1.45, or 5.32 per cent.

On a total bill basis, a typical residential customer will see an increase of $5.20, or 4.46 per cent per month before taxes and the Ontario Electricity Rebate.

This result represents our efforts to pace electricity system investments and keep rate increases as low as possible, for our customers.

You gave your say

In 2019, customers were invited to provide input to help inform this application, at a public meeting, in person, via an online survey and by joining the conversation on Twitter.

Due to the uncertainties presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, and to assist our customers during this difficult time, Kingston Hydro then deferred the submission of our application from 2020 to 2022.  

In your feedback, you told us that keeping rates as low as possible was important.

A paced investment strategy to renew or replace critical infrastructure

Here are the actions we are taking to keep rates as low as possible:

• Pacing system investments to mitigate the impact of rate increases.
• Delivering cost savings through our unique multi-utility model.
• Where feasible, managing costs by completing work in-house.

Our paced investment strategy will renew or replace critical infrastructure, ensure the continued reliability and resiliency of electricity services, prepare for the impacts of climate change, and support economic growth and intensification for Kingston.

Some major investment highlights by asset category for 2023 that will contribute to power reliability, resiliency and growth in our community include the following:

• $1 million for end-of-life underground distribution
• $550,000 for end-of-life poles and voltage conversion 
• $450,000 for critical field truck replacements
• $375,000 for electricity meters to ensure continued reliability
• $300,000 for connecting new developments

More information

• Kingston Hydro’s application for electricity distribution rates beginning January 1, 2023: EB-2022-0044
• Decision and Rate Order
• Five-year electricity system investment forecast - Utilities Kingston

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact customer service, Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM at 613-546-0000.