Initiatives et consultations - archives

The Minister’s Directive to the OEB to establish a Demand Side Management (DSM) policy framework included a Mid-Term Review to align with the Mid-Term Review of the Conservation First Framework.

Initiative to develop a Framework for the Assessment of Distributor Gas Supply Plans.

On November 9, 2016, the Minister of Energy asked the OEB to examine and report back with information on Ontario’s retail market for gasoline and diesel fuels

The OEB posted a Report of the Ontario Energy Board – Updated Policy for the Lost Revenue Adjustment Mechanism Calculation: Lost Revenues and Peak Demand Savings from Conservation and Demand Management Programs.

The OEB has released the Report of the Ontario Energy Board - Defining Ontario’s Typical Electricity Customer.

Consultation to develop a natural gas regulatory framework to support the implementation of Ontario’s Cap and Trade program.

The OEB updated its filing requirements for natural gas rate applications.

Initiative to define a “Major Event” that will be used to normalize reliability performance data, develop reporting to evaluate a distributor’s response to a Major Event and, establish “customer specific” system reliability measures.

3rd Natural Gas Market Review (NGMR) consultation to examine ongoing developments and related issues in the North American natural gas market.

Amendments to implement a minimum mandatory record retention period.

The OEB initiated a consultation on distributor gas supply planning. The consultation will focus on gas supply and transportation planning strategies and the risk/cost trade-offs considered in the plans.

Consultation regarding proposed amendments to the OEB’s codes, rules and other regulatory instruments applicable to electricity retailers and natural gas marketers.

Consultation on rate-regulated utility pensions and other post-employment benefits (OPEBs).

Phase II of the Intervenor Framework consultation.

The implementation of the OESP, a program to provide ongoing, and on-bill, rate assistance for low-income electricity consumers in Ontario.

Amendments to the DSC to establish criteria to facilitate the elimination of the remaining load transfer arrangements between electricity distributors.

The Minister of Energy asked the OEB to examine opportunities to facilitate enhanced access to natural gas for rural and remote communities and businesses.

Consultation to consider whether all electricity distributors should have their licences amended to allow market rates to be charged for wireless attachments, under the same conditions as THESL.

Consultative process to examine recent developments in the North American natural gas market to better understand any potential implications for Ontario’s natural gas sector.

Initiative to establish specific performance targets related to distribution system reliability.

The OEB provided recommendations on a program design that would offer ongoing, and on-bill, rate assistance to low-income electricity consumers.

Review of distributors' billing frequency, the use of estimated billing, and billing accuracy.

Consultation to consider revised approaches to the funding of capital investments by utilities.

Consultation to develop a new DSM Framework to be used by natural gas distributors in developing their next DSM plans for 2015 to 2020.

The Minister of Energy asked the OEB to undertake a review of Part II of the ECPA.

Initiative to review policies relating to Service Area Amendments, and Rate-Making after Consolidation.

Amendments to the DSC to require distributors to include certain minimum requirements in their Conditions of Service in relation to unmetered load customers.

Amendments to the DSC to require a distributor to install a MIST meter on any installation that is forecast to have a monthly average peak demand during a calendar year of over 50 kW.

The OEB assessed the potential benefits and impacts of the proposed Energy East Pipeline from an Ontario perspective.

The Board reviewed the framework governing the participation of intervenors in applications, policy consultations and other proceedings before the Board.

Revisions to the RPP Manual to change the manner in which the variance settlement amount that consumers pay, or receive, when they exit the Regulated Price Plan is calculated.

The Advisory Committee provides the Board with ongoing assistance on emerging smart grid issues as the Board proceeds with facilitating the development and implementation of smart grid in Ontario.

Amendments to the licence of the OPA to address their obligations in the regional planning process.

Initative to assess how the Board’s approach to the regulation of electricity distributors may affect the ability of distributors to realize operational or organizational efficiencies that benefit customers.

The Board initiated a consultation process to develop standby rates for Load Displacement Generation (LDG).

Initiative to create a rate design that provides greater stability for the consumer.

Review of Cost Allocation Policy for Unmetered Loads (“UL”). UL encompass Street Lighting, Unmetered Scattered Loads, and Sentinel Lighting classes.

Amendments to the DSC to provide additional time for applicants of large embedded generation facilities that require transmission upgrades to sign a connection cost agreement with the distributor for the facility and maintain its capacity allocation.

Consultation to improve the connection process for micro-embedded generation.

Amendments to the Board's Electricity Reporting and Record Keeping Requirements (RRR).

On January 5, 2012, the Board issued for comment a new set of Guidelines for Electricity Distributor Conservation and Demand Management (CDM).

Consultation process to amend the Unit Sub-Metering Code (USMC) to implement provisions relating to increased consumer protection measures.

Consultation to promote the cost-effective development of electricity infrastructure through coordinated planning on a regional basis between licensed distributors and transmitters.

The Board initiated two working groups associated with Regional Infrastructure Planning.

Consultative process to conduct a preliminary assessment of the incentive regulation plans of the natural gas utilities.

Q&As that relate to the implementation of the Energy Consumer Protection Act, 2010 and associated OEB regulatory requirements.

Consultation process to examine issues associated with the implementation of Smart Grid.

Consultation to address how the Board might ensure that distributor investment plans are demonstrably economically efficient and cost-effective.

Consultation process to provide utilities and the Board with a range of approaches and supporting tools to help mitigate the effects of unavoidable and significant rate and/or bill impacts.

Consultative process to address how the Board might create conditions which will foster the cost-effective and efficient implementation of Board-approved network investment plans.

Consultation on revisions to the Board’s Cost Assessment Model to reflect the proposed amendments to Ontario Regulation 16/08.

Consultation process to determine whether there is a need to modify the current structure or price setting methodology for TOU electricity prices.

Amendments to the Smart Sub-Metering Code and the Distribution System Code to implement the provisions of the Energy Consumer Protection Act, 2010 in relation to suite metering.

The Board initiated a coordinated consultative process to develop a renewed regulatory framework for electricity (RRFE).

The ECPA established a new framework for the regulation of the activities of licensed electricity retailers and gas marketers.

Consultation process to develop customer service rules for natural gas distributors.

Consultative process to review specific elements of the Board's electricity distribution cost allocation policy.

Consultation to develop system reliability measures and performance standards for electricity distributors.

Amendments to the ARC for Gas Utilities and the Natural Gas RRR to reflect the ability of natural gas utilities to own and operate certain renewable and other generation facilities as well as energy storage facilities.

Consultative process to review and examine recent developments in North American natural gas supply markets to consider any potential implications for the Ontario natural gas market.

The Board issued a final determination under section 1.2.1 of the Standard Supply Service Code to mandate time-of-use pricing for regulated price plan customers.

The Board is responsible for determining the allocation of the total CDM targets to each licensed electricity distributor.

The Board may specify, as a condition of licence, conservation and demand management targets for electricity distributors.

The Board issued its “Framework for Transmission Project Development Plans” that sets out the policy for new transmission investment in Ontario, with regard to transmission project development planning.

Amendments to the TSC to revise the definition of the term “Supporting Guarantee”.

Consultation process to examine the revenue adjustment and cost recovery mechanisms available to electricity and natural gas distributors.

Consultation process in relation to the alternative bid option provisions of the Distribution System Code.

Consultation process to assist in understanding the need for and the implications of a potential alignment of the rate year with the fiscal year for electricity distributors.

CDM Strategies, Board-Approved CDM Programs, Performance Incentive and Annual Reports.

Policy guidance regarding distributors’ planning process.

Amendments to the DSC and ARC for Electricity Distributors and Transmitters to reflect the ability of electricity distributors to own and operate certain renewable and other generation facilities as well as energy storage facilities.

Consultation process to address how the Board should determine the direct benefits that accrue to the consumers of a distributor when that distributor has incurred costs to make an eligible investment in its distribution system to accommodate a renewable energy generation facility.

Proceeding to determine a just and reasonable rate to be charged by an electricity distributor for the recovery of costs associated with an embedded generator having a nameplate capacity of 10 kilowatts or less.

Amendments to the Natural Gas Reporting and Record Keeping Requirements: Gas Marketer Licence Requirements (RRR).

Amendments to the Natural Gas Reporting and Record Keeping Requirements: Rule for Gas Utilities.

Proposed amendments to the Electricity RRR.

The Retail Compliance Plan was created to verify that licensed electricity retailers and natural gas marketers are in compliance with their legal and regulatory obligations.

Amendments to the Distribution System Code and Retail Settlement Code regarding the account treatment and settlement of retail embedded generation.

The Financial Assistance Working Group is responsible for developing guidelines relating to the delivery of emergency funding to low-income energy consumers.

In accordance with Board requirements, electricity distributors file quarterly reports on smart meter deployment and the application of Time-of-Use pricing.

The role of the Conservation Working Group was to develop both a short-term (2010) and long-term framework for DSM by natural gas distributors, as it relates to low-income energy consumers.

Filing Requirements for distribution system plans to be filed under section 70(2.1) of the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998.

Consultative process to determine whether current economic and financial market conditions warrant an adjustment to any of the Cost of Capital parameter values.

The Board issued Guidelines on the deemed conditions of licence regarding distribution system planning as provided for in the Green Energy and Green Economy Act, 2009.

Initiative to consider more innovative approaches to cost recovery for electricity infrastructure projects.

Amendments to the Distribution System Code to revise its approach to assigning cost responsibility.

Amendments to the DSC to enhance the generation connection process for allocating capacity for connection.

The OEB commenced a proceeding to determine whether certain distributors that have not otherwise been authorized to conduct discretionary metering activities should be authorized to do so.

Amendments to address inconsistencies in the application of the seasonal change in the Regulated Price Plan (RPP) tier threshold for condominiums.

Amendments that would defer the date by which geographic distributors must eliminate load transfer arrangements.

The Board amended the RSC to clarify that the right to information belongs to the consumer and can be delegated by each consumer to his or her agent or retailer.

The Board consulted on its proposal to endorse the Ontario Power Authority’s Measures and Assumptions List.

Consultation process to review the DSM framework and develop guidelines for DSM to be used by natural gas distributors in developing their next generation DSM plans.

Filing Guidelines for the Pre-Approval of Long-Term Gas Supply and/or Upstream Transportation Contracts (“LTC Filing Guidelines”).

Proceeding to determine the accuracy of the final account balances with respect to account 1562 Deferred PILs.

Consultation process to examine issues associated with low income energy consumers in relation to their use of natural gas and electricity (LEAP, EFA).

Amendments to the DSC to simplify the process for the connection of smaller sized generation facilities that utilize a non-intermittent generation technology.

Consultation to assist in the transition of regulatory accounting to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

The Board initiated a consultation process to assist it in determining whether there is a need to modify the methodology for setting TOU electricity prices.

The Board developed rules of conduct and reporting related to storage.

Policy framework for the review and disposition of deferral and variance accounts for electricity distributors.

The Board developed Guidelines for Electricity Distributor Conservation and Demand Management (CDM).

Consultation to examine the issue of cost responsibility associated with the connection of generation and load facilities to electricity transmission systems.

Consultation process to develop a service quality regulation regime for electricity distributors.

This proceeding set the Uniform Transmission rates and revenue shares for Ontario Transmitters.

Consultation process regarding issues associated with the provision of service by electricity distributors and the manner in which electricity distributors apply certain charges.

The Board received a Directive from the Minister of Energy that required the Board to implement such measures as the Board considers necessary to address the issue of stray voltage as it affects the farm sector.

Filings and working group materials related to 3rd Generation Incentive Regulation

The Ontario Energy Board consulted with stakeholders on the development of the principles and methodology for the third generation incentive regulation mechanism (3rd Generation IRM) for electricity distributors.

Consultative process to assist the Board in determining an appropriate policy framework for distributed generation.

The Board is proposing to adopt an Aboriginal Consultation Policy.

Board staff engaged in research regarding the Board’s Affiliate Relationships Code for Electricity Distributors and Transmitters (ARC).

Code amendments to facilitate a cost-effective transition to smart metering.

Proceeding to determine issues related to the recovery of costs associated with discretionary metering activities.

Review to consider the need for, and approaches to, changes to distribution rate design in light of industry changes and emerging issues.

Hydro One was seeking approvals from the Board related to the proposed Bruce-Milton Transmission Project.

Information on stakeholder meetings held in April-May 2007 regarding regulatory barriers to CDM.

Rate making issues that may be associated with certain distributor mergers, acquisitions, amalgamations and divestitures.

CDM Plans and Decisions for CDM activities in 2006.

Amendments that would defer the date by which geographic distributors must eliminate load transfer arrangements. The proposed amendments also outlined information geographic distributors would be required to file with respect to their plans for eliminatin

Addendum to the Report of the Board on 2nd Generation Incentive Regulation Mechanism.

The Board issued the Smart Sub-Metering Code in order to support the regulations and impose appropriate standards on the activities of the smart sub-metering providers.

The Board established a multi-year electricity distribution rate setting plan for the years 2007 to 2010.

The Board's process to develop a regulatory framework for CDM activities by electricity distributors in 2007 and beyond.

Consultation process on comparison of distributor costs.

The connection procedures submitted by the two applicants were reviewed and approved under section 6.1.5 of the Transmission System Code.

Information on a revenue stabilization proposal

The Board initiated a consultation process to develop a multi-year incentive regulation plan for setting natural gas utility rates.

The Board developed principles to guide its review of the OPA's IPSP and procurement processes.

The smart price pilot was designed to help the Board better understand the degree to which Ontario consumers change their electricity consumption behaviour with smart meters.

This project developed a mechanistic incentive rate adjustment, including the cost of capital to be used, for the years 2007 to 2010.

Phase 3: Mandatory OEB filing requirements, OEB model design and data inputs

Proceeding to make certain determinations of matters raised in applications by electricity distribution companies for 2006 rates

The Board initiated a consultative process to discuss the filing requirements for Ontario Power Generation’s next payment amounts application.

The Board initiated a generic proceeding to address a number of issues related to DSM activities.

Amendments to the DSC to include a common set of terms and conditions for security deposits.

Generic Hearing - Natural Gas Electricity Interface Review Issues and Storage Regulation.

Creation of licence conditions establishing the maximum cumulative generation capacity from net metering generators that electricity distributors must allow to be connected to the distribution system.

Phase 2: Priority rate design and rate classification matters

A generic proceeding to consider common CDM activities as part of the 2006 EDR process.

The OEB issued an interpretative guideline with respect to its review of contracts between the Ontario Power Authority and various generators.

As part of the findings of the Natural Gas Forum report, the Board reviewed the gas utilitiy guidelines for the rate hearing process.

The OEB developed the terms and conditions for a standard offer program for small generators embedded in the distribution system that use clean or renewable resources.

The Board identified a need to review and clarify certain provisions in the Distribution System Code related to expansions, alternative bids, and enhancements. Chapter 3 of the Code, entitled Connections and Expansions, was established to encourage uniformity of approach across electricity distributors.

Phase 1 - OEB cost allocation principles and methodologies

Consultation to discuss a proposed framework that will develop service quality measures, standards and reporting mechanisms for natural gas utilities

A review of Hydro One Network Inc.'s filings on the Customer Equipment Compliance Process and Customer Delivery Point Performance Standards.

The conclusions of the NGF report were implemented over several years through public processes that include stakeholder participation.

This review examines the implications of additional gas-fired electricity generation on the natural gas infrastructure, service offerings, and on coordination between natural gas and electricity system operators.

The 2006 Electricity Distribution Rate Handbook served as a guideline to aid electricity distributors in preparing applications for 2006 distribution rates.

The Board directed the utilities serving York Region to identify the optimal transmission and/or distribution infrastructure investment to serve York Region.

Information on CDM plans and applications from utilities.

This initiative examined the principles, methodologies, filing requirements and model design in respect of new cost allocation studies for electricity distributors.

2004 revisions to the Transmission System Code.

The Gas Distribution Access Rule (GDAR) relates to the conduct of gas distributors towards gas vendors, including gas marketers; and to the access to distribution services provided by distributors. Information on the GDAR EBT Standards Working Group.

A cost assessment study was undertaken to ensure a complete, fair and transparent review of all alternative cost assessment models and recommend a new model that would address the impact of both recent legislative changes on the OEB and changes in the current mix of energy market participants.

The Board formed the RPP Working Group to study the options, identify implementation issues, and make recommendations to Board staff.

Information relating to Third Tranche CDM activities, including CDM Plans, Decisions, Annual Reports, and LRAM and SSM applications.

On August 23, 2004, the Board launched a consultation process to develop a new regulated price plan for eligible electricity consumers.

The OEB provides the regulatory framework for the smart metering initiative.

The proposed smart meter implementation plan suggested the mandatory technical requirements for smart meters and the support systems distributors would require.

The Board issued its Report and 2006 Electricity Distribution Handbook on May 11, 2005.

Amendments to the DSC to provide greater clarity as to local electricity distribution companies’ rights and obligations with respect to customers owing money for unpaid electricity charges or for a security deposit.

The Board established reporting and record keeping requirements for natural gas utilities and licensed gas marketers.

Application by the CCTA for an amendment to electricity distributor licences to establish uniform terms and conditions of access to electricity distribution power poles.

The EBT Standards govern the exchange of information among automated systems to enable electricity distributors and retailers to meet the requirements of the Retail Settlement Code.

Amendments to the DSC to enhance public safety in circumstances where a distributor disconnects a customer.

Facilitate the development of viable competitive markets in natural gas through review of the role of storage, transportation and the supply of commodity gas.

Amend the Electricity Retailer Code of Conduct and the Code of Conduct for Gas Marketers to reflect, for example, legislative amendments such as Bills 58, 210, 23.

The Board reviewed Service Quality Regulation, as part of the phased development of second-generation PBR for electricity distribution

Request from the Minister of Energy for Hydro One Networks Inc. to submit to the Board a proposal for rebating existing, and new, metered market participants when they make alternative arrangements for the provision of meter services.

Develop a process to identify and review transmission system enhancements to improve economic efficiency.

Report to the Minister with recommendations on options for delivery of demand-side management and demand response activities in the electricity sector and on the role of electricity and natural gas distributors in demand side management.

Amendments to the DSC in order to facilitate the connection of cleaner, alternative and renewable energy sources to distribution systems.

Amendments to the RSC in order to be consistent with amendments made to the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998, and several changes made by the Independent Electricity Market Operator.

Combined proceeding for several applications for distribution service area amendments.

Undertake cost allocation studies to allocate revenue requirement between rate classes.

Develop a second generation RBR rate approach for electricity distributors post 2006.

The OEB initiated a proceeding to determine if changes are required to the TSC.

Development of reporting and record-keeping requirements for electricity market participants.

In June 2000, the Minister of Energy, Science and Technology issued a policy directive to the Board on the setting of rates for the distribution of electricity.

The Board implemented Ontario's first generation of performance-based rate regulation for electricity distribution.

A review by the Ontario Energy Board of the Expansion of the Natural Gas System in Ontario (E.B.O. 134).