Electricity Sector
The Electricity Sector in Ontario has gone through major changes since 1997. At that time, Ontario Hydro was responsible for most of the electricity sector in the Province.
Presently, provincial bodies such as those listed below supervise the Electricity Sector. The Ministry of Energy has overall responsibility for the Sector (www.energy.gov.on.ca). More information about the Electricity Sector can be found through these websites.
- Ontario Energy Board (www.oeb.gov.on.ca)
- Independent Electricity System Operator (www.ieso.ca)
- Ontario Power Authority (www.powerauthority.on.ca)
- Electrical Safety Authority (www.esainspection.net)
Local Distribution Company
Essex Powerlines is the Local Distribution Company for the towns of Amherstburg, LaSalle, Leamington and Tecumseh. As such, Essex Powerlines owns and operates the physical electricity infrastructure in these areas. Essex Powerlines is the default company from which consumers purchase electricity from the provincial grid.
Some customers in the Essex Powerlines service area elect to purchase electricity from Retailers. These customers enter into independent contracts with Retailers. Essex Powerlines is not a Retailer and does not solicit business from residents through door-to-door, over-the-phone or other methods. The Ontario Energy Board is responsible for regulating Retailers and any questions or concerns about Retailers should be directed to the Ontario Energy Board.