How can I extend or renew my energy contract?

The rules for energy contracts in Ontario changed in January 2017. The information in this question is for contracts that have been entered into on and after January 1, 2017.

The information in this question is only about renewing or extending an energy contract for electricity from an energy retailer. For information about buying natural gas, contact the Ontario Energy Board (OEB).

Renewing a contract means that you continue your existing contract with new terms. Extending a contract means that you continue your existing contract under the same terms. You can extend or renew your energy contract only if the original contract says you can.

If the original contract does not say anything, then you cannot extend or renew the contract. Instead, you have to sign a new contract if you want to continue to buy electricity from the same energy retailer.

If you want to extend or renew your contract, you must tell the energy retailer. Energy retailers are not allowed to extend or renew a contract without your permission.

If you do not extend or renew your energy contract, you will automatically get your energy services from your local distribution company when your contract ends.

There are rules you and the energy retailer must follow to extend or renew your energy contract. Read more in Step 2.

Make sure that you understand how much you will pay before you decide to extend or renew your contract.

You can cancel the contract even if you have extended or renewed it. You might have to pay a cancellation fee.