London Hydro reports increase of families relying on assistance programs to pay electricity bills

London Hydro reports increased number of people accessing support to help pay their energy bills with rising cost of living.

The public utility says more local families need assistance when paying their monthly electric bills.

One of the programs has seen usage almost double since March 2024.

The company is reminding the public of two provincial programs that can offer relief: the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) and the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP).

OESP provides monthly on-bill credit ranging from $35 to $113.

Following a provincial decision to expand the household income thresholds to make more households eligible for assistance, London Hydro has seen a 67 per cent increase in OESP registrations, with 13,000 customers receiving on-bill credits.

To help customers avoid disconnection, LEAP offers a one-time emergency payment. The program has grown by 84 per cent since 2024, with 1,300 customers receiving a one-time payment.

“No one should have to choose between paying their electricity bill and other essential needs,” said Ysni Semsedini, CEO of London Hydro. “If you or someone you know could benefit from these programs, please reach out, we’re here to help.”