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Assistance Programs
We understand that circumstances can arise that can make keeping up with your bills difficult. There are several resources that London Hydro has made available to our customers to help them in times of difficulty and access to ongoing support.
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Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP)
LEAP is managed and funds are distributed by the Salvation Army's Centre of Hope through their Housing Stability Bank.
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Ontario Electricity Support Program
If you are a customer of an electricity utility and in a lower-income home, you may qualify for a reduction on your electricity bill.
Low-income Energy Assistance Program – Emergency Financial Assistance
To further support Ontarians through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) temporarily increased the flexibility of the Low-income Energy Assistance Program – Emergency Financial Assistance (LEAP EFA). In addition, the maximum value of LEAP grant amounts has been increased to ensure that low-income customers with higher-than-average arrears are given the opportunity to receive assistance to the greatest degree possible.
LEAP-EFA Questions & Answers
Q. What are the temporary changes to the screening guidelines for LEAP EFA?
A: The OEB has made temporary changes to the screening guidelines used by LEAP EFA agencies in evaluating applications for this year. They are:
- Applicants do not need to be in threat of disconnection or have been disconnected in order to be eligible, but they still need to be in arrears and at or below the income thresholds
- Eligible customers may apply for and receive LEAP EFA more than once per year, but the total amount received by a household may not exceed the maximum grant amount
- This year, the maximum value of grant amounts has been increased to $1,000 ($1,200 for customers with electrically-heated homes). This is double the maximum allowed grant under the usual LEAP program rules.
Eligible customers cannot receive more money than they owe on their bills. Therefore, they may not receive the maximum grant amount.
Q: How long are these temporary changes in effect?
A: These temporary changes are in effect for the 2022 calendar year.
Q: What are the benefits of these temporary changes?
A: To further support Ontarians through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the OEB has made these temporary changes to provide increased flexibility to distributors and their agencies, and to maximize emergency financial assistance at a time when energy consumers need it most.
Q: Are there other programs to support low-income customers?
A: Yes. Customers who meet the income threshold requirements for LEAP EFA may also qualify for the Ontario Electricity Support Program, a program that provides ongoing, monthly bill payment support. You can register for OESP here.
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Energy Conservation Information
Another great way to save on energy costs is by reducing your usage. Visit our Energy Conservation page to find out more about ways to save.