Due in part to the May 16th decision in LIEN’s Divisional Court appeal that found the OEB does have jurisdiction to implement rate affordability programs for low-income residential consumers, the Board announced on July 2nd that it was starting a consultation process to examine energy issues associated with low-income consumers, such as rate assistance, arrears management, disconnection procedures, emergency assistance, service charges (i.e. late payment fees, reconnection charges), and low-income conservation and demand management programs. Despite the Divisional Court appeal decision, however, the Board still has not decided about whether or how they should exercise their jurisdiction to consider the ability to pay when setting utility rates.  

From September 22nd – 25th, LIEN attended the OEB Consultation on Energy Issues Relating to Low-Income Consumers. The consultation provided an opportunity for interested stakeholder to make presentations on low-income energy issues relating to rate assistance, arrears management, disconnection procedures, emergency assistance, service charges (i.e. late payment fees, reconnection charges), and low-income conservation and demand management programs.

Click on the link to view the LIEN presentation at the OEB.

The mission statement, origins and accomplishments of LIEN are presented, along with the impacts of non-action.

Finally, some sources for additional information are provided.