As the weather begins its gradual shift toward warmer temperatures, residents across the province are preparing for the annual transition in power costs. Beginning May 1, 2026, the Ontario summer electricity rates will officially take effect for the majority of residential and small business customers. This seasonal shift, overseen by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), adjusts the timing of peak pricing to reflect changing consumption patterns, specifically the increased demand for air conditioning during the afternoon hours. For those in Durham Region, understanding these shifts is essential for managing monthly utility budgets effectively.
For customers on the Time-of-Use (TOU) plan—the most common billing method in the province—the cheaper times to use electricity will shift significantly during the day. Under the Ontario summer electricity rates, the “on-peak” period moves to the middle of the day, specifically from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., when temperatures are typically at their highest. Mid-peak hours will now occur from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Fortunately for night owls and weekend warriors, the off-peak hours remain consistent from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays, and all day on weekends and statutory holidays.
The actual costs per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the TOU plan remain unchanged from the levels set last autumn. Off-peak power is priced at 9.8 ¢/kWh, mid-peak at 15.7 ¢/kWh, and the premium on-peak rate sits at 20.3 ¢/kWh. Meanwhile, customers who prefer the Tiered pricing model will also see a seasonal adjustment. During the summer period, the Tier 1 threshold for residential customers drops from 1,000 kWh down to 600 kWh. This change accounts for the fact that households generally use less electricity for lighting and heating in the summer compared to the dark, cold winter months.
For those looking for the absolute lowest possible rates, the Ultra-Low Overnight (ULO) plan remains an option that does not change with the seasons. This plan offers a specialized rate of just 2.8 ¢/kWh between midnight and 6 a.m. every day, which is particularly beneficial for electric vehicle owners or those with high overnight energy needs. Whether you are in Oshawa, Whitby, or Pickering, the OEB reminds all consumers that they have the right to switch between TOU, Tiered, or ULO billing if they find a different plan better suits their lifestyle and usage habits.
As the May 1 deadline approaches, Durham residents are encouraged to review their recent bills and consider how the Ontario summer electricity rates will impact their daily routines. Simple adjustments, such as running heavy appliances like dishwashers or laundry machines after 7 p.m., can lead to noticeable savings. With the Tier 1 threshold tightening, being mindful of total consumption is also key for those on tiered plans to avoid slipping into the higher Tier 2 rate of 14.2 ¢/kWh. For more detailed information or to use a calculator to compare plans, residents can visit the official Ontario Energy Board website.
