Ontario households and small businesses will face higher electricity costs starting November 1, as the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) rolls out new pricing alongside the switch to winter time-of-use hours.
For time-of-use customers, the new rates are:
- On-peak: 20.3¢/kWh (up from 15.8¢)
- Mid-peak: 15.7¢/kWh (up from 12.2¢)
- Off-peak: 9.8¢/kWh (up from 7.6¢)
These new rates will remain in effect until October 31, 2026. The winter pricing schedule also shifts daily peak times, which could affect bills depending on when electricity is used.
- Winter on-peak hours: Weekdays 7 a.m.–11 a.m. and 5 p.m.–7 p.m.
- Mid-peak hours: Weekdays 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Off-peak hours: Weekdays 7 p.m.–7 a.m., and all day on weekends and holidays.
Electricity prices have been steadily rising in Ontario over time, though some years have seen dips. Customers looking to manage their bills are encouraged to shift usage to off-peak periods and consider Ultra-Low Overnight pricing, which offers lower overnight rates but will also increase on November 1.
The OEB’s online bill calculator can help households determine whether switching to a different pricing plan could save money, especially for those who charge electric vehicles or run high-consumption appliances overnight.