⚡ Rate reference (verified for accuracy 2026-08-15):
- Standard Time-of-Use (TOU) plan — the default for most homes: on-peak 20.3¢/kWh, mid-peak 15.7¢/kWh, off-peak 9.8¢/kWh. Windows swap seasonally (summer on-peak 11 AM–5 PM weekdays; winter on-peak 7–11 AM + 5–7 PM weekdays; off-peak 7 PM–7 AM plus all weekends and holidays year-round).
- Ultra-Low Overnight (ULO) plan — opt-in alternative for homes with batteries or EVs: on-peak 39.1¢/kWh (4–9 PM weekdays), mid-peak 15.7¢/kWh, weekend off-peak 9.8¢/kWh, ultra-low overnight 3.9¢/kWh (11 PM–7 AM every day).
- Rates set by the Ontario Energy Board, in effect November 1, 2025 through October 31, 2026. Source: oeb.ca. The Ontario Electricity Rebate (currently 23.5%) reduces both rates on your bill.
As summer heats up in Muskoka, homeowners in towns like Huntsville, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Barrie, and Orillia are looking for ways to manage their energy costs effectively. Understanding Hydro One's TOU pricing can help you make informed decisions about energy consumption and investments in solar and battery storage. With the right approach, you can reduce your monthly bills while contributing to a greener environment.
Understanding Hydro One's Time-of-Use Rates
Hydro One implements a Time-of-Use (TOU) pricing structure that divides the day into three distinct rate periods: peak, mid-peak, and off-peak. For homeowners in Parry Sound, this means you can save money by using electricity during off-peak hours, typically overnight or during weekends. Standard TOU rates are 20.3¢/kWh on-peak, 15.7¢/kWh mid-peak, 9.8¢/kWh off-peak. On the opt-in ULO plan, on-peak is 39.1¢/kWh (4-9 PM weekdays), off-peak overnight is 3.9¢/kWh (11 PM-7 AM), mid-peak is 15.7¢/kWh.
By shifting your energy-intensive activities, such as laundry or charging electric vehicles, to off-peak times, you can significantly lower your electricity costs. Moreover, investing in solar panels can help you generate your own electricity during the day, which can further reduce reliance on Hydro One's grid and enhance your control over energy expenses.
Benefits of Solar Energy in Parry Sound
Installing solar panels in Parry Sound not only contributes to environmental sustainability but can also lead to substantial financial savings. With Hydro One's solar rebate, eligible homeowners can receive $1,000 per kW, up to a maximum of $5,000, which can significantly offset installation costs. Given that many homes in the region have ample roof space to accommodate solar panels, the potential for energy savings is quite high.
It's important to note that this rebate is capped at 50% of the total installation costs, meaning homeowners should plan accordingly. By coupling solar panels with battery storage systems, you can further enhance your energy savings, especially during peak hours when electricity rates are highest.
Maximizing Savings with Battery Storage
Battery storage systems are an essential component of an effective energy strategy for homeowners in Parry Sound. By storing excess energy generated from solar panels, you can use this energy during peak hours when rates are at their highest. The Hydro One rebate for battery storage is $300 per kWh, with a maximum rebate of $5,000, but it is crucial to remember that this rebate requires the battery to be paired with new solar installations.
By combining solar and battery storage, you can achieve a combined maximum rebate of $10,000, which can significantly reduce your upfront costs. Pre-approval is required before installation, so homeowners should be proactive in applying for this incentive to maximize their savings.
| Energy Rate Type | Cost (¢/kWh) | Time Period |
|---|---|---|
| Peak | 39.1 | 4–9 PM weekdays |
| Mid-Peak | 10.9 | Weekdays, other hours |
| Off-Peak | 3.9 | Nights/weekends |
| ULO Daytime | 10.1 | Daytime |
| ULO Overnight | 2.8 | Overnight |
Why Choose Muskoka Energy Storage?
Our expertise lies in connecting homeowners in Huntsville, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Barrie, Orillia, and Parry Sound with trusted solar and battery storage installers. We understand the unique energy needs of the Muskoka region and can guide you through the process of evaluating your options, applying for rebates, and finding the right solutions for your home.
With the rising costs of electricity, now is a great time to invest in solar energy and battery storage. Our network of professionals can help ensure that you benefit from the best available technology and incentives, providing you with a sustainable and cost-effective energy solution.
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Request Your Assessment →Frequently Asked Questions
To save on your Hydro One bill, consider shifting your energy usage to off-peak hours, where rates are significantly lower. Additionally, investing in solar panels and battery storage can help you further reduce costs.
Yes, you can receive rebates for both solar and battery storage, but the battery must be installed alongside new solar panels to qualify for the battery rebate. The combined maximum rebate is $10,000.
Homeowners must apply for pre-approval before installation to access the HRSP rebates. It’s recommended to consult with a local installer who can assist with the application process.
On the opt-in ULO plan, on-peak hours are 4-9 PM weekdays at 39.1¢/kWh (overnight 11 PM-7 AM is just 3.9¢/kWh). On the standard TOU plan, on-peak hours are 11 AM-5 PM weekdays in summer (or 7-11 AM + 5-7 PM in winter) at 20.3¢/kWh (off-peak 9.8¢/kWh).