The Prince Edward-Hastings MPP is calling on the Ontario Energy Board to stop a recently proposed Hydro One rate increase.
MPP Todd Smith, who also acts as the Energy Critic, has written an open letter to the OEB in that regard. This stems from Energy Minister Glenn Thibeault’s announcement that Hydro One has agreed to acquire Avista, a utility company in the US.
However, Smith says Hydro One wants to increase electricity rates by $141 a year, which shouldn’t happen based on this announcement.
Smith says he can’t speak to whether or not Hydro One should acquire Avista as the majority of shares are now privately owned. But he does say he is concerned the move will mean Ontarians will have to pay more for electricity.
The Energy Minister says the acquisition will benefit Ontarians, and will not impact rates or local jobs.
