SCO Support Programs

COVID-19 has created significant challenges for Ontario families and businesses.  As sub-metering providers, SCO members are doing our part to support customers to access a variety of programs and initiatives that can help manage utility costs.  One way we are doing this – year round – is by offering competitive administration fees that are, on average, $9.66 per month lower than local utilities[1].

In addition to lower administration fees, here are SIX programs and initiatives that are available to our sub-metering customers.

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program (CEAP-Residential): The CEAP program supports electricity customers that are having difficulty paying their bills as a result of the pandemic.  The program provides a one-time credit of up to $115 for eligible customers on your utility bill (and up to $230 for those that rely on electricity for heating or for at-home medical devices).  This $9 million program was developed by the Ministry of Energy with active participation by SCO members.  To learn more about the CEAP Residential Program and eligibility requirements, please contact your Sub-metering provider.

COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program for Small Business (CEAP-SB): Launching on August 31, 2020, this $8 million program is aimed at supporting small businesses having difficulty paying their electricity bills.  Eligible customers can qualify for a one-time credit of up to $425 (and up to $850 if the premises rely primarily on electricity for heating).  More information on the program will be announced shortly.  To learn more about the CEAP Small Business Program and eligibility requirements, please contact your Sub-metering provider.

The Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP): This program provides low-income electricity customers with a monthly on-bill credit of up to $75 per month to reduce their electricity bill, based on level of income and number of people living in the home.  The program is only available to electricity bill payers, and provides ongoing help.  To learn more about the OESP Program and eligibility requirements, please contact your Sub-metering provider or click here.

The Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP): LEAP provides a one-time grant towards your electricity bill if you are behind on your bill and may face having your service shut off.  There are certain eligibility criteria to qualify for this program, and you must go through an intake agency.  To learn more about the LEAP Program and eligibility requirements, please contact your Sub-metering provider or click here. 

Flexible payment arrangements: Sub-metering providers offer a variety of flexible payment options and arrangements for those experiencing difficulty paying for their electricity use.  Please contact your Sub-metering provider for more information. 

Ontario Electricity Rebate (OER): Sub-metering customers in multi-residential buildings also have access to the OER which provides an automatic rebate of 31.8% on customer bills.  To learn more about the OER, please contact your Sub-metering provider.

[1] 2019, Power Advisory Study.  Comparison of LDC and Sub-Metering Residential Electricity Rates in Ontario.