The Ontario Energy Board explains that consumers may choose an energy contract with a licensed retailer or buy electricity or natural gas from their utility. It also notes that energy contract prices are not regulated by the OEB.
That means a contract comparison should be careful, documented, and based on the total bill rather than one rate number.
Licensed retailer
Confirm the retailer is licensed before considering a contract.
Utility role
Delivery and local service usually remain connected to the utility/distributor.
Contract price
The energy contract price is not the same as the full bill.
Cancellation
Read cancellation and renewal rules before signing.
Consumer protection
Use OEB consumer information if unsure.
Total bill
Compare the total bill effect, not just cents per kWh or gas rate.
Start with the OEB consumer pages
Before considering a contract, use Ontario Energy Board consumer information to understand licensed retailers, contract rules, and consumer protections.
A retailer may be licensed, but that does not automatically make the offer better than utility supply. Compare the offer against actual usage and total charges.
Separate supply from delivery
An energy contract may affect the supply or commodity portion. Delivery, taxes, and other regulated or local items may continue to appear separately.
This is why a contract rate can look attractive while the total bill may not change as much as expected.
Document the offer
Keep a copy of the contract, confirmation, cancellation rules, price, term, renewal language, and any sales materials. If a dispute happens later, written details matter.
Ontario contract review worksheet
| Question | Why it matters | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Is the retailer licensed? | Licensed retailers are subject to OEB rules | |
| What part of the bill changes? | Supply is not the whole bill | |
| What is the contract term? | Longer terms can reduce flexibility | |
| Can I cancel? | Cancellation rights affect risk | |
| Does the price renew automatically? | Automatic renewal can surprise households | |
| How does it compare to my current bill? | The total bill is what matters |
Before signing in Ontario
- Check the OEB licensed retailer list.
- Read the OEB energy contracts consumer information.
- Compare against your actual bill and usage.
- Separate supply price from delivery and other charges.
- Read cancellation and renewal rules.
- Keep written copies of all terms.
- Do not sign under pressure.
Official sources worth checking
These links are included as starting points. Always use the current version of official pages before making a decision.
- Ontario Energy Board energy contracts
- Ontario Energy Board licensed energy retailers
- Ontario Energy Board list of licensed companies
Related guides
For broader home-cost context, see Property Costs Explained. For repair and replacement planning, see Repair Costs Explained. These related guides and should be used only where their topics are relevant.
FAQ
Are Ontario energy contract prices regulated by the OEB?
The OEB says energy contract prices are not regulated by the OEB, so consumers should compare carefully.
Will my utility still deliver energy if I sign a contract?
The local utility/distributor typically remains involved in delivery and system service, even if the supply contract changes.
What is the safest first step?
Read OEB consumer information and compare the contract against your actual bill before signing.