As the move into 2026 looms, the province is facing a sharp jump in the cost of power. The Ontario Energy Board (OEB) has announced changes to residential, small business and farm electricity pricing effective November 1, 2025 that will carry into 2026 — signalling what many will feel as a significant rate hike.
A key takeaway among these changes is a rate increase of more than 28% across all households and small businesses — a figure that reflects sharply higher winter time-of-use (TOU), tiered and ultra-low overnight (ULO) pricing. Even though the government is also increasing the Ontario Electricity Rebate (OER) to 23.5 % to help offset bills, the net effect is still higher overall costs for most customers
This uptick comes in the context of a broader national trend: Canadians are reporting that rising basic costs are affecting their ability to heat, cool and operate homes and businesses. For example, a recent survey found that nearly half (45 %) of Canadians reported that rising prices were greatly impacting their day-to-day expenses. Energy costs are a core part of that challenge, especially for those who rely on electric heating or cooling.
How Solar Can Make the Ontario Electricity Rate 2025 Hike Easier
Against this backdrop, solar power stands out as a proven way to mitigate these rate pressures. Installing rooftop or ground-mounted solar panels allows homeowners and businesses in Ontario to generate electricity on-site, reducing dependence on the grid and insulating themselves from future rate hikes. Over time, solar can deliver return on investment by lowering ongoing utility costs — a strategic hedge in an environment of rising electricity rates.
For many, the idea of solar may seem unattainable due to the associated price point. However, solar as an investment has never been more readily available thanks to Ontario solar rebate programs. Prices have lowered significantly over the past few decades — and by using our 0% interest program, a solar investment can be cash flow positive in just the first year.
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