Ontario Electricity Support Program Offers Monthly Relief for Eligible Households

As temperatures drop and heating costs rise, many households across Grey and Bruce counties are feeling the pressure of increasing utility bills. For individuals and families already managing tight budgets, keeping up with electricity costs can mean making difficult financial decisions.

The Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) is designed to ease some of that financial burden by providing eligible low-income households with ongoing monthly credits directly on their electricity bills.

What Is the Ontario Electricity Support Program?

Administered by the Ontario Energy Board, OESP helps qualifying Ontario residents reduce their monthly electricity expenses.

Depending on household income, family size, and individual circumstances, eligible residents can receive between $45 and $113 per month in electricity bill credits.

For some households, that could mean savings of more than $1,000 annually, helping free up money for other necessities such as groceries, housing, transportation, and medication.

Unlike emergency financial assistance programs, OESP provides ongoing support every month for 2 years, and 5 years for seniors.

Why OESP Matters in Grey and Bruce Counties

For residents across Grey and Bruce counties, particularly those living on fixed incomes, working in lower-wage jobs or managing rising household expenses, electricity costs can represent a significant financial challenge.

This is especially important in rural communities, where households may rely on electric heating and face additional transportation and housing expenses.

OESP helps reduce financial pressure by making electricity bills more manageable. These savings can make a meaningful difference for seniors, families, individuals with disabilities, and others experiencing financial hardship.

By reducing one essential household expense, the program can help residents maintain greater financial stability and focus on other everyday needs.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility for OESP is based primarily on two factors:

• The number of people living in the household.
• The household’s combined annual after-tax income.

Most approved applicants receive assistance for two years before needing to reapply. Seniors aged 65 and older and individuals receiving a Canada Pension Plan disability pension may qualify for five years of support.

How to Apply

Applying for OESP is free and can be completed online, by mail, or with assistance from an authorized intake agency.

Applicants will need their electricity bill, household members’ names and birthdates, ID for everyone in the household, and proof of income.

Applicants who can qualify based on their most recent income tax assessment can do the applications themselves, if they are comfortable with computers and online applications.

Applicants whose income has changed since the most recent tax assessment and NOW qualify can bring their paperwork to the United Way, and we will complete the application for you. Please bring all the documentation to ensure we can complete the application in one visit. Calling ahead to make an appointment is helpful. 519-376-1560 Monday to Friday 8:30-4:30

To apply or learn more:

• Visit www.OESP.ca
• Call 1-855-831-8151
• Contact United Way of Bruce Grey at 519-376-1560 for application assistance, particularly if your income has changed or you have not recently filed your taxes.

Additional Support Through United Way of Bruce Grey

United Way of Bruce Grey recognizes that access to affordable utilities is essential to maintaining a safe and stable home.

In addition to helping residents navigate OESP, United Way of Bruce Grey connects individuals and families with other financial assistance programs, including emergency utility support for those struggling with electricity, natural gas, and home heating expenses.

Residents who are behind on utility payments may also qualify for assistance through the Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), which provides emergency support to eligible households facing disconnection.

For information about local financial assistance programs and community resources, residents can call or text 211, a free, confidential service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Small Savings Can Make a Big Difference

Financial stability often begins with having enough money to cover life’s basic necessities. Programs like OESP help make that possible by reducing the ongoing cost of an essential service.

For households across Grey and Bruce counties, even a modest monthly reduction in electricity costs can provide valuable breathing room.

For more information about local utility assistance programs, visit United Way of Bruce Grey or call 211.