What are my rights when I sign an 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.

Energy contracts are agreements you sign to buy electricity or natural gas from an energy retailer.

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

Energy retailers

An energy retailer is a company that sells electricity or natural gas services. Check this list to see if they have a licence from the Ontario Energy Board (OEB).

The OEB regulates Ontario's electricity and natural gas sectors. This means that the OEB makes sure that licenced energy retailers and local distribution companies follow the rules. If they break the rules, the OEB can take action against them.

If the retailer is not licenced by the OEB, you should not sign a contract with them.

Energy retailers are sometimes called electricity retailers. Retailers are not the government, a distribution company, or the OEB.

Distribution companies

You can agree to an energy contract with an energy retailer. Or you can buy your electricity from your local distribution company. Check this list to find your local distribution company.

Check how much it costs to buy from an energy retailer compared to your local distribution company. Sometimes it can be cheaper to buy from your local distribution company. You can compare your options using the OEB's bill calculator.

Rules about energy contracts

It's important to understand your rights before you agree to an energy contract. There are rules about how an energy retailer can approach you about a contract and what information they must give you before you sign one. If the retailer does not follow these rules, you should not sign a contract with them.