A number of special programs are available in Ontario to help low-income energy consumers. When resources are limited, households are faced with the dilemma of whether to make rent/mortgage payments, purchase groceries, or pay their utility bills. When the alternative is the risk of homelessness or your family going hungry, more and more households are finding themselves falling behind on utility payments. Our full time call centre partners with a number of Utility Service Providers to administer this financial assistance on their behalf.
Important changes to the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) as of March 1, 2024
-Eligible gas customers can receive up to $650 towards their gas arrears and up to $780 towards their electricity arrears.
-Any eligible customer who received a LEAP grant between January 1, 2024 and February 29, 2024 can re-apply and receive additional funding up to the new maximum annual grant amount.
-Income thresholds to receive funding have been increased (see chart below).
Services we offer
Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP)
Emergency financial assistance – This fund-limited program provides a one-time grant towards your electricity or natural gas bill if you are temporarily unable to make ends meet in an emergency situation.
To qualify you must (a) be the account holder, (b) live in the home and (c) be past due on your bill. If you have any questions please contact leap@uwsimcoemuskoka.ca
Energy Conservation
Help cut your energy costs through energy conservation. Ask us about Enbridge Gas’ Home Winter Proofing program. If you have any questions please call 1-855-487-5327
Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP)
This program provides low-income consumers with a monthly on-bill credit to reduce their electricity bill. To find out more information please call 1-855-487-5327
To apply for assistance:
Step 1: Apply for Assistance
Call 1 855 487 5327 to speak to a representative
If you are a customer of Hydro One, Epcor Gas, Epcor Electricty, Renfrew Hydro, Ottawa River Power or Hydro Ottawa you can apply online here
.
Step 2: Submitting documents
After completing the phone screening with one of our representatives send your supporting documents to leap@uwsimcoemuskoka.ca
If you applied online, please email your supporting documents to leap@uwsimcoemuskoka.ca
Step 3: LEAP Approval
Please allow 2 weeks to process your application after submitting all your supporting documents.
Follow up on the status of your application by calling 1 855 487 5327 and selecting option 2.
Intake Agency Partners
Our partner intake agencies can assist with verifying your income and identification, many of them can also assist with language support.