Community Report - Q2 2022

Non-Shareholder Municipalities

Elexicon Energy’s quarterly reports provide our valued communities and customers with a progress and impact update. Each report details Elexicon’s continued commitment to customer service, system reliability, corporate social responsibility, operations management and other significant updates – nurturing transparency and open communication between Elexicon and its stakeholders.

Select a community report in your region from the tab below.

Township of Brock

Image for Brock

We proudly serve 2,800 residential and business customers in the Township of Brock with reliable and affordable energy services.

The Community Reports support our commitment to transparency and keeping our shareholder communities up to date on our activities more frequently. The reports include information on Customer Service, System Reliability, Operations and Asset Improvements, Communications and Thought Leadership, Innovation and Sustainability, Industry News and Corporate Social Responsibility.

Have a question or require more information? communications@elexiconenergy.com

Customer Experience

  • The Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”) announced no changes to Time-of-Use (“TOU”) and Tiered electricity rates for May 1st, 2022. However, May 1st marks the start of the summer TOU hours and Tiered thresholds. This change impacts all customers under the Regulated Price Plan (RPP).
  • The OEB’s residential Winter Disconnection Banended on April 30th. Elexicon Energy has resumed regular business practices of disconnecting customers (all customer classes) for non-payment with a focus on those customers who have the highest arrears. Elexicon has also resumed disconnections for customers who have not contracted for service (nonsign-up).
  • Residential and small business customers can choose their price plan, either TOU or Tiered pricing. Customers are not required to select a price plan but if they wish to switch, they must notify Elexicon by completing and submitting an election form. As of June 30th, 5,994 Elexicon customers (or 3.4 per cent) have changed their pricing structure or are in the process of doing so.
  • There are financial assistance programs in place to support customers, including the Ontario Electricity Support Programand the Low-income Energy Assistance Program. Elexicon continues to encourage customers experiencing difficulty paying their bill to contact us to discuss bill payment options.
  • Elexicon values its customers, and our Customer Experience team strives to provide customers with assistance in a timely and respectful manner. Provided below are the number of calls and written enquires our Customer Experience team received and responded to in Q2 2022.
    • Phone Calls

    April: 7,316

    May: 9,601

    June: 9,020

    TOTAL: 25,937

    Written Enquiries

    April: 999

    May: 1,017

    June: 1,397

    TOTAL: 3,413

System Reliability

More than 2,800 homes and businesses in the Township of Brock depend on a steady supply of electricity to power their lives. Elexicon Energy takes service reliability very seriously, and continues to monitor and mitigate any trends to ensure system reliability.

System Reliability
The average number of hours that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 0.03 compared to 1.90 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Scheduled Outage*:
76 hrs compared to 0 hrs in Q2 2021

Defective Equipment:
5 hrs compared to 524 hrs in Q2 2021

Adverse Weather:
1 hr compared to 0 hrs in Q2 2021

TOTAL OUTAGE DURATION IN CUSTOMER HOURS:

81 hrs in Q2 2022 compared to 5.395 hrs in Q2 2021

System Reliability
The average number of times that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 0.01 compared to 0.45 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Scheduled Outage*:
2 outages compared to 0 outages in Q2 2021

Defective Equipment:
2 outages compared to 3 outages in Q2 2022

Adverse Weather:
1 outage compared to 0 outages in Q2 2021

TOTAL NUMBER OF OUTAGES:

5 in Q2 2022 compared to 10 in Q2 2021

*To ensure that our electricity distribution network operates in peak condition, Elexicon conducts important maintenance and construction work that sometimes requires planned power interruptions.

Operations and Asset Improvements

Operations and Asset Improvements
  • Nothing to report at this time.

Communications and Thought Leadership

  • April is Dig Safe Month, and Elexicon Energy joined forces with Alectra Utilities, Hydro One, Hydro Ottawa and Toronto Hydro, to encourage customers to contact Ontario One Call to have their underground utilities located before digging, planting or starting any outdoor projects.
  • Elexicon Energy has partnered with the Region of Durham on another unique initiative. The Durham Greener Homes Program is a region-wide residential energy retrofit program designed to support homeowners as they navigate through the deep energy retrofit process in an effort to lower their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The Government of Ontario announced that it is launching an Electrification and Energy Transition Panel. The Panel will make recommendations for an integrated energy plan that ensures continued reliability and affordability of the province’s energy supply. Elexicon Energy sees this panel as a step in the right direction for encouraging dialogue across the sector and issued this statement applauding the announcement.
  • Elexicon Energy’s President and CEO, Indrani Butany-DeSouza, spoke at the EUCI’s Leadership Conference for Women in Energy that ran from April 20th to 21st. Indrani had this to say on the topic of women in leadership, “As a woman leader, I cannot stress enough that we all have the opportunity to lift others up. We do not need to lead like a man. We need to get out of our own way and take up our space at the table and make room for others.”
  • Indrani also participated on a panel as part of the CAMPUT Conference that took place May 1st to 4th. The discussion touched on a number of different aspects of the industry and the challenges ahead. Indrani said this, “The energy industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in decades. With a strong focus on achieving net zero carbon emission targets, renewable energy generation is quickly evolving to a scale within reach of the average consumer. It’s important to bring the right people to the table to have these conversations and determine how a more salient symbiotic relationship can be reached between the consumer, the grid and energy ecosystem.”
  • Indrani also spoke at Electricity Canada as part of the Regulatory Forum Panel. Reflecting on the experience she said, “For all of us it was clear, in the longer term, the cost of inaction on climate change is higher than the cost of action. However, this may present some challenges to regulators and regulated companies as costs could increase in the short to medium term. We need defined criteria for the types of sustainability and innovation projects that local distribution companies can undertake. At the same time, we need to remain focused on affordability, safety and reliability for all our customers.”
  • On June 23, Elexicon Corporation, the single shareholder and holding company of Elexicon Energy and Elexicon Group, released its 2021 Annual Report as well as its first Corporate, Environmental and Social Responsibility (CESR) Report to its shareholders at its Annual General Meeting.
  • For the first time since 2019, the City of Pickering’s Civic Award Ceremony was hosted in person at City Hall to recognize the outstanding achievements of residents, local businesses and community organizations. Winners are nominated by peers and residents for their outstanding contributions to the community. The winner of the Sustainability Award was Elexicon Energy, Marshall Homes and Opus One Solutions for creating Altona Towns – Canada’s first pre-planned residential microgrid community located in west Pickering.
Communications Thought Leadership

Innovation and Sustainability

Innovation and Sustainability
  • The Electricity Distributors Association (“EDA”) released a paper titled, "The Power of Sustainability: How Local Distribution Companies Can Enable a Net Zero Future." In the paper, the EDA makes recommendations about the evolving role of local distribution companies and guidance required from the Ontario Energy Board. The same recommendations from the report were included in a letter to Minister Steven Guilbeault with feedback on the Clean Electricity Standard.
  • The Canadian Climate Institute issued a report on May 4th titled The Big Switch. A previous report by the thinktank found that clean electricity and electrification underpin all credible economy-wide pathways to net zero. The current report states that in order to meet net zero targets two actions are needed: natural gas and coal need to be replaced with cleaner technologies, and vehicles need to move from gasoline to electricity. This all adds up to a lot more demand for electricity. The new report found that in 2050, Canada will need to have 2.2 to 3.4 more installed capacity. The report also makes recommendations for the role federal and provincial governments should take in the transition.
  • The Ministry of Energy is considering offering a reduced electricity rate to hydrogen producers in Ontario in an effort to quickly grow Ontario’s low-carbon hydrogen economy. Generally, there seems to be favour in the industry to this approach. However, LDCs and the EDA have noted that LDCs would need to have more discussions to sort out the details on how this could be offered.

Industry News

  • The government made amendments to Ontario’s net metering regulation (O. Reg. 541/05), under the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998, and consequential amendments to O. Reg. 389/10 (General) under the Energy Consumer Protection Act, 2010. The changes clarify and enable third-party ownership arrangements for net metering, such as leasing, financing and power purchase agreements, providing electricity customers in Ontario more options to participate in net metering. Prior to the amendments, the net metering regulation required the customer to own or operate the renewable generation system to qualify as an eligible generator. Additional details available on the province's website.
  • Proclamation of Bill 87, on October 1, 2020, launched a clear mandate for change at the Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”). A new governance framework, along with mandate letters outlining the government’s priorities, established the formal authority to drive modernization, enhance public trust, promote accountability, and deliver value for money for the people of Ontario. The OEB created an online timeline of the work completed on modernization to date.
  • The Electricity Distributors Association published the spring 2022 issue of their magazine, The Distributor. This issue celebrates the organization’s 110th year and includes a brief history of the sector and other industry news. The magazine is available for reading online here.
  • Summer time-of-use (TOU) rates came into effect on May 1st. During the summertime, the on-peak period shifts to 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The mid-peak period is 7 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m., and the off-peak period is 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Additional details are on the OEB’s website.
  • The OEB made an announcement regarding their regional planning process. In December 2021, the Regional Planning Process Advisory Group (RPPAG) released a report for the OEB with a number of recommended changes to the regional planning process. The OEB published a letter on April 28th with a schedule for implementing the changes recommended in the report. Among the recommendations, the OEB will issue a new bulletin to communities that they have a choice to opt for a “premium” solution (i.e. distributed energy resources, rather than wires) to reflect “local preferences” and the cost responsibility for the premium option beginning in Q2 this year.
Industry News

Corporate Social Responsibility

CORPORATE GIVING PROGRAM UPDATE:

  • 2022 Budget: $5,387
  • Amount spent to date: $2,877

RECENT CORPORATE GIVING RECIPIENTS:

  • Alzheimer Society of Durham Region
  • Durham Kids Safety Village
  • High School Bursary
  • Scientists in School
  • The Denise House
  • The Nourish and Development Foundation
Corporate Social Responsibility

"Elexicon Energy’s support of the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region helps provide counselling, support and education for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias and their families. Your generous contribution helps ensure those living with dementia have access to the services they need, and their families and care partners are supported and prepared for the journey ahead. Thank you for investing in our community and helping to improve the quality of life for those impacted by dementia in Durham Region.”

– Kendel Ferrara, Director of Philanthropy

Alzheimer Society of Durham Region

“Scientists in School is grateful for the support of Elexicon Energy through their Corporate Giving Program. Through our partnership we have helped to deepen impact across our mutual service communities for our mission to ignite scientific curiosity in young learners. Complimentary engaging, investigative classroom workshops in elementary schools have helped to heighten STEM confidence and interest, and build bridges to bright futures and a thoughtful citizenry. Thank you to Elexicon Energy for believing in the importance of STEM enrichment education for local children and youth.”

– Cindy Adams, Executive Director

Scientists in School

“At The Denise House we hold therapeutic wellness groups for our women. Our groups provide a safe and supportive environment for women to share, heal and support one another. An evaluation and check in are completed after every group, and women will often share how helpful the information was for their understanding of abuse and their new beginning. We are grateful for the support we receive from Elexicon Energy as your donations have helped to fund these groups and purchase the tools needed to encourage interaction, discovery and play. Thank you ALL so much!”

– Dena Sicard, Fund Development & Community Connector

The Denise House

“The Nourish and Develop Foundation (TNDF) is better able to serve our community thanks to Elexicon’s generous donation that went towards the purchase of a brand new fridge/freezer for the Nourish House food bank. The new unit has significantly increased storage capacity for fresh and frozen food items. TNDF aims to provide milk, eggs, produce, and healthy frozen prepared meals at all times and this contribution supports our efforts.”

– Beth Hendry, Food Access Manager

The Nourish and Develop Foundation

Town of Gravenhurst

Image for Gravenhurst

We proudly serve 6,500 residential and business customers in the Town of Gravenhurst with reliable and affordable energy services.

The Community Reports support our commitment to transparency and keeping our shareholder communities up to date on our activities more frequently. The reports include information on Customer Service, System Reliability, Operations and Asset Improvements, Communications and Thought Leadership, Innovation and Sustainability, Industry News and Corporate Social Responsibility.

Have a question or require more information? communications@elexiconenergy.com

Customer Experience

  • The Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”) announced no changes to Time-of-Use (“TOU”) and Tiered electricity rates for May 1st, 2022. However, May 1st marks the start of the summer TOU hours and Tiered thresholds. This change impacts all customers under the Regulated Price Plan (RPP).
  • The OEB’s residential Winter Disconnection Banended on April 30th. Elexicon Energy has resumed regular business practices of disconnecting customers (all customer classes) for non-payment with a focus on those customers who have the highest arrears. Elexicon has also resumed disconnections for customers who have not contracted for service (nonsign-up).
  • Residential and small business customers can choose their price plan, either TOU or Tiered pricing. Customers are not required to select a price plan but if they wish to switch, they must notify Elexicon by completing and submitting an election form. As of June 30th, 5,994 Elexicon customers (or 3.4 per cent) have changed their pricing structure or are in the process of doing so.
  • There are financial assistance programs in place to support customers, including the Ontario Electricity Support Programand the Low-income Energy Assistance Program. Elexicon continues to encourage customers experiencing difficulty paying their bill to contact us to discuss bill payment options.
  • Elexicon values its customers, and our Customer Experience team strives to provide customers with assistance in a timely and respectful manner. Provided below are the number of calls and written enquires our Customer Experience team received and responded to in Q2 2022.
    • Phone Calls

    April: 7,316

    May: 9,601

    June: 9,020

    TOTAL: 25,937

    Written Enquiries

    April: 999

    May: 1,017

    June: 1,397

    TOTAL: 3,413

System Reliability

More than 6,400 homes and businesses in the Town of Gravenhurst depend on a steady supply of electricity to power their lives. Elexicon Energy takes service reliability very seriously, and continues to monitor and mitigate any trends to ensure system reliability.

System Reliability
The average number of hours that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 5.07 compared to .62 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Adverse Weather*:
16,923 hrs compared to 16 hrs in Q2 2021

Unknown/Other:
10,089 hrs compared to 151 hrs in Q2 2021

Tree Contacts:
4,368 hrs compared to 3,586 hrs in Q2 2021

TOTAL OUTAGE DURATION IN CUSTOMER HOURS:

34,454* hrs in Q2 2022 compared to 9,647 hrs in Q2 2021

System Reliability
The average number of times that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 0.60 compared to 0.16 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Unknown/Other:
11 outages compared to 4 outages in Q2 2021

Adverse Weather*:
10 outages compared to 3 outages in Q2 2021

Tree Contacts:
9 outages compared to 9 outages in Q2 2021

TOTAL NUMBER OF OUTAGES:

43 in Q2 2022 compared to 43 in Q2 2021

*There were multiple outages in the area on June 17th and 18th due to high winds causing tree contacts on two feeders. Restoration times in this area are longer as there are significant challenges for lines crews to locate the faults due to heavily treed areas.

Operations and Asset Improvements

Operations and Asset Improvements
  • Completed: Frank Miller Memorial Route pole line re-build.
  • Underway: Tree trimming activity in areas throughout Gravenhurst. The proactive work and preventative maintenance helps ensure public safety and the reliable operation of our distribution system during major weather events. The work started on March 21st and should be wrapped up by June 30th, 2022.

Communications and Thought Leadership

  • April is Dig Safe Month, and Elexicon Energy joined forces with Alectra Utilities, Hydro One, Hydro Ottawa and Toronto Hydro, to encourage customers to contact Ontario One Call to have their underground utilities located before digging, planting or starting any outdoor projects.
  • Elexicon Energy has partnered with the Region of Durham on another unique initiative. The Durham Greener Homes Program is a region-wide residential energy retrofit program designed to support homeowners as they navigate through the deep energy retrofit process in an effort to lower their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The Government of Ontario announced that it is launching an Electrification and Energy Transition Panel. The Panel will make recommendations for an integrated energy plan that ensures continued reliability and affordability of the province’s energy supply. Elexicon Energy sees this panel as a step in the right direction for encouraging dialogue across the sector and issued this statement applauding the announcement.
  • Elexicon Energy’s President and CEO, Indrani Butany-DeSouza, spoke at the EUCI’s Leadership Conference for Women in Energy that ran from April 20th to 21st. Indrani had this to say on the topic of women in leadership, “As a woman leader, I cannot stress enough that we all have the opportunity to lift others up. We do not need to lead like a man. We need to get out of our own way and take up our space at the table and make room for others.”
  • Indrani also participated on a panel as part of the CAMPUT Conference that took place May 1st to 4th. The discussion touched on a number of different aspects of the industry and the challenges ahead. Indrani said this, “The energy industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in decades. With a strong focus on achieving net zero carbon emission targets, renewable energy generation is quickly evolving to a scale within reach of the average consumer. It’s important to bring the right people to the table to have these conversations and determine how a more salient symbiotic relationship can be reached between the consumer, the grid and energy ecosystem.”
  • Indrani also spoke at Electricity Canada as part of the Regulatory Forum Panel. Reflecting on the experience she said, “For all of us it was clear, in the longer term, the cost of inaction on climate change is higher than the cost of action. However, this may present some challenges to regulators and regulated companies as costs could increase in the short to medium term. We need defined criteria for the types of sustainability and innovation projects that local distribution companies can undertake. At the same time, we need to remain focused on affordability, safety and reliability for all our customers.”
  • On June 23, Elexicon Corporation, the single shareholder and holding company of Elexicon Energy and Elexicon Group, released its 2021 Annual Report as well as its first Corporate, Environmental and Social Responsibility (CESR) Report to its shareholders at its Annual General Meeting.
  • For the first time since 2019, the City of Pickering’s Civic Award Ceremony was hosted in person at City Hall to recognize the outstanding achievements of residents, local businesses and community organizations. Winners are nominated by peers and residents for their outstanding contributions to the community. The winner of the Sustainability Award was Elexicon Energy, Marshall Homes and Opus One Solutions for creating Altona Towns – Canada’s first pre-planned residential microgrid community located in west Pickering.
Communications Thought Leadership

Innovation and Sustainability

Innovation and Sustainability
  • The Electricity Distributors Association (“EDA”) released a paper titled, "The Power of Sustainability: How Local Distribution Companies Can Enable a Net Zero Future." In the paper, the EDA makes recommendations about the evolving role of local distribution companies and guidance required from the Ontario Energy Board. The same recommendations from the report were included in a letter to Minister Steven Guilbeault with feedback on the Clean Electricity Standard.
  • The Canadian Climate Institute issued a report on May 4th titled The Big Switch. A previous report by the thinktank found that clean electricity and electrification underpin all credible economy-wide pathways to net zero. The current report states that in order to meet net zero targets two actions are needed: natural gas and coal need to be replaced with cleaner technologies, and vehicles need to move from gasoline to electricity. This all adds up to a lot more demand for electricity. The new report found that in 2050, Canada will need to have 2.2 to 3.4 more installed capacity. The report also makes recommendations for the role federal and provincial governments should take in the transition.
  • The Ministry of Energy is considering offering a reduced electricity rate to hydrogen producers in Ontario in an effort to quickly grow Ontario’s low-carbon hydrogen economy. Generally, there seems to be favour in the industry to this approach. However, LDCs and the EDA have noted that LDCs would need to have more discussions to sort out the details on how this could be offered.

Industry News

  • The government made amendments to Ontario’s net metering regulation (O. Reg. 541/05), under the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998, and consequential amendments to O. Reg. 389/10 (General) under the Energy Consumer Protection Act, 2010. The changes clarify and enable third-party ownership arrangements for net metering, such as leasing, financing and power purchase agreements, providing electricity customers in Ontario more options to participate in net metering. Prior to the amendments, the net metering regulation required the customer to own or operate the renewable generation system to qualify as an eligible generator. Additional details available on the province's website.
  • Proclamation of Bill 87, on October 1, 2020, launched a clear mandate for change at the Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”). A new governance framework, along with mandate letters outlining the government’s priorities, established the formal authority to drive modernization, enhance public trust, promote accountability, and deliver value for money for the people of Ontario. The OEB created an online timeline of the work completed on modernization to date.
  • The Electricity Distributors Association published the spring 2022 issue of their magazine, The Distributor. This issue celebrates the organization’s 110th year and includes a brief history of the sector and other industry news. The magazine is available for reading online here.
  • Summer time-of-use (TOU) rates came into effect on May 1st. During the summertime, the on-peak period shifts to 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The mid-peak period is 7 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m., and the off-peak period is 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Additional details are on the OEB’s website.
  • The OEB made an announcement regarding their regional planning process. In December 2021, the Regional Planning Process Advisory Group (RPPAG) released a report for the OEB with a number of recommended changes to the regional planning process. The OEB published a letter on April 28th with a schedule for implementing the changes recommended in the report. Among the recommendations, the OEB will issue a new bulletin to communities that they have a choice to opt for a “premium” solution (i.e. distributed energy resources, rather than wires) to reflect “local preferences” and the cost responsibility for the premium option beginning in Q2 this year.
Industry News

Corporate Social Responsibility

CORPORATE GIVING PROGRAM UPDATE:

  • 2022 Budget: $13,248
  • Amount spent to date: $500

RECENT CORPORATE GIVING RECIPIENTS:

  • High School Bursary
  • Scientists in School
Corporate Social Responsibility

“Scientists in School is grateful for the support of Elexicon Energy through their Corporate Giving Program. Through our partnership we have helped to deepen impact across our mutual service communities for our mission to ignite scientific curiosity in young learners. Complimentary engaging, investigative classroom workshops in elementary schools have helped to heighten STEM confidence and interest, and build bridges to bright futures and a thoughtful citizenry. Thank you to Elexicon Energy for believing in the importance of STEM enrichment education for local children and youth.”

– Cindy Adams, Executive Director

Scientists in School

Municipality of Port Hope

Image for Port Hope

We proudly serve 6,000 residential and business customers in the Municipality of Port Hope with reliable and affordable energy services.

The Community Reports support our commitment to transparency and keeping our shareholder communities up to date on our activities more frequently. The reports include information on Customer Service, System Reliability, Operations and Asset Improvements, Communications and Thought Leadership, Innovation and Sustainability, Industry News and Corporate Social Responsibility.

Have a question or require more information? communications@elexiconenergy.com

Customer Experience

  • The Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”) announced no changes to Time-of-Use (“TOU”) and Tiered electricity rates for May 1st, 2022. However, May 1st marks the start of the summer TOU hours and Tiered thresholds. This change impacts all customers under the Regulated Price Plan (RPP).
  • The OEB’s residential Winter Disconnection Banended on April 30th. Elexicon Energy has resumed regular business practices of disconnecting customers (all customer classes) for non-payment with a focus on those customers who have the highest arrears. Elexicon has also resumed disconnections for customers who have not contracted for service (nonsign-up).
  • Residential and small business customers can choose their price plan, either TOU or Tiered pricing. Customers are not required to select a price plan but if they wish to switch, they must notify Elexicon by completing and submitting an election form. As of June 30th, 5,994 Elexicon customers (or 3.4 per cent) have changed their pricing structure or are in the process of doing so.
  • There are financial assistance programs in place to support customers, including the Ontario Electricity Support Programand the Low-income Energy Assistance Program. Elexicon continues to encourage customers experiencing difficulty paying their bill to contact us to discuss bill payment options.
  • Elexicon values its customers, and our Customer Experience team strives to provide customers with assistance in a timely and respectful manner. Provided below are the number of calls and written enquires our Customer Experience team received and responded to in Q2 2022.
    • Phone Calls

    April: 7,316

    May: 9,601

    June: 9,020

    TOTAL: 25,937

    Written Enquiries

    April: 999

    May: 1,017

    June: 1,397

    TOTAL: 3,413

System Reliability

More than 5,800 homes and businesses in the Municipality of Port Hope depend on a steady supply of electricity to power their lives. Elexicon Energy takes service reliability very seriously, and continues to monitor and mitigate any trends to ensure system reliability.

System Reliability
The average number of hours that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 0.01 compared to 0.03 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Tree Contact:
52 hrs compared to 0 hrs in Q2 2021

Scheduled Outage*:
22 hrs compared to 7 hrs in Q2 2021

TOTAL OUTAGE DURATION IN CUSTOMER HOURS:

73 hrs in Q2 2022 compared to 201 hrs in Q2 2021

System Reliability
The average number of times that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 0.01 compared to 0.03 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Scheduled Outage*:
2 outages compared to 1 outage in Q2 2021

Tree Contact:
1 outage compared to 0 outages in Q2 2021

TOTAL NUMBER OF OUTAGES:

3 in Q2 2022 compared to 7 in Q2 2021

*To ensure that our electricity distribution network operates in peak condition, Elexicon conducts important maintenance and construction work that sometimes requires planned power interruptions.

Operations and Asset Improvements

Operations and Asset Improvements
  • Completed: Pole and transformer replacements throughout the community to improve aging equipment and system reliability.
  • Completed: Pole relocation on Chestnut HI.
  • Underway: Tree trimming activity in areas throughout Port Hope. The proactive work and preventative maintenance helps ensure public safety and the reliable operation of our distribution system during major weather events. The work started on March 21st and should be wrapped up by June 30th, 2022.
  • Underway: Insulator washing on Elexicon’s high voltage poles to remove salt and other particulates from the insulators that hold the wires. The washing helps prevent tracking, which can cause power outages and cause damage to infrastructure.

Communications and Thought Leadership

  • April is Dig Safe Month, and Elexicon Energy joined forces with Alectra Utilities, Hydro One, Hydro Ottawa and Toronto Hydro, to encourage customers to contact Ontario One Call to have their underground utilities located before digging, planting or starting any outdoor projects.
  • Elexicon Energy has partnered with the Region of Durham on another unique initiative. The Durham Greener Homes Program is a region-wide residential energy retrofit program designed to support homeowners as they navigate through the deep energy retrofit process in an effort to lower their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The Government of Ontario announced that it is launching an Electrification and Energy Transition Panel. The Panel will make recommendations for an integrated energy plan that ensures continued reliability and affordability of the province’s energy supply. Elexicon Energy sees this panel as a step in the right direction for encouraging dialogue across the sector and issued this statement applauding the announcement.
  • Elexicon Energy’s President and CEO, Indrani Butany-DeSouza, spoke at the EUCI’s Leadership Conference for Women in Energy that ran from April 20th to 21st. Indrani had this to say on the topic of women in leadership, “As a woman leader, I cannot stress enough that we all have the opportunity to lift others up. We do not need to lead like a man. We need to get out of our own way and take up our space at the table and make room for others.”
  • Indrani also participated on a panel as part of the CAMPUT Conference that took place May 1st to 4th. The discussion touched on a number of different aspects of the industry and the challenges ahead. Indrani said this, “The energy industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in decades. With a strong focus on achieving net zero carbon emission targets, renewable energy generation is quickly evolving to a scale within reach of the average consumer. It’s important to bring the right people to the table to have these conversations and determine how a more salient symbiotic relationship can be reached between the consumer, the grid and energy ecosystem.”
  • Indrani also spoke at Electricity Canada as part of the Regulatory Forum Panel. Reflecting on the experience she said, “For all of us it was clear, in the longer term, the cost of inaction on climate change is higher than the cost of action. However, this may present some challenges to regulators and regulated companies as costs could increase in the short to medium term. We need defined criteria for the types of sustainability and innovation projects that local distribution companies can undertake. At the same time, we need to remain focused on affordability, safety and reliability for all our customers.”
  • On June 23, Elexicon Corporation, the single shareholder and holding company of Elexicon Energy and Elexicon Group, released its 2021 Annual Report as well as its first Corporate, Environmental and Social Responsibility (CESR) Report to its shareholders at its Annual General Meeting.
  • For the first time since 2019, the City of Pickering’s Civic Award Ceremony was hosted in person at City Hall to recognize the outstanding achievements of residents, local businesses and community organizations. Winners are nominated by peers and residents for their outstanding contributions to the community. The winner of the Sustainability Award was Elexicon Energy, Marshall Homes and Opus One Solutions for creating Altona Towns – Canada’s first pre-planned residential microgrid community located in west Pickering.
Communications Thought Leadership

Innovation and Sustainability

Innovation and Sustainability
  • The Electricity Distributors Association (“EDA”) released a paper titled, "The Power of Sustainability: How Local Distribution Companies Can Enable a Net Zero Future." In the paper, the EDA makes recommendations about the evolving role of local distribution companies and guidance required from the Ontario Energy Board. The same recommendations from the report were included in a letter to Minister Steven Guilbeault with feedback on the Clean Electricity Standard.
  • The Canadian Climate Institute issued a report on May 4th titled The Big Switch. A previous report by the thinktank found that clean electricity and electrification underpin all credible economy-wide pathways to net zero. The current report states that in order to meet net zero targets two actions are needed: natural gas and coal need to be replaced with cleaner technologies, and vehicles need to move from gasoline to electricity. This all adds up to a lot more demand for electricity. The new report found that in 2050, Canada will need to have 2.2 to 3.4 more installed capacity. The report also makes recommendations for the role federal and provincial governments should take in the transition.
  • The Ministry of Energy is considering offering a reduced electricity rate to hydrogen producers in Ontario in an effort to quickly grow Ontario’s low-carbon hydrogen economy. Generally, there seems to be favour in the industry to this approach. However, LDCs and the EDA have noted that LDCs would need to have more discussions to sort out the details on how this could be offered.

Industry News

  • The government made amendments to Ontario’s net metering regulation (O. Reg. 541/05), under the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998, and consequential amendments to O. Reg. 389/10 (General) under the Energy Consumer Protection Act, 2010. The changes clarify and enable third-party ownership arrangements for net metering, such as leasing, financing and power purchase agreements, providing electricity customers in Ontario more options to participate in net metering. Prior to the amendments, the net metering regulation required the customer to own or operate the renewable generation system to qualify as an eligible generator. Additional details available on the province's website.
  • Proclamation of Bill 87, on October 1, 2020, launched a clear mandate for change at the Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”). A new governance framework, along with mandate letters outlining the government’s priorities, established the formal authority to drive modernization, enhance public trust, promote accountability, and deliver value for money for the people of Ontario. The OEB created an online timeline of the work completed on modernization to date.
  • The Electricity Distributors Association published the spring 2022 issue of their magazine, The Distributor. This issue celebrates the organization’s 110th year and includes a brief history of the sector and other industry news. The magazine is available for reading online here.
  • Summer time-of-use (TOU) rates came into effect on May 1st. During the summertime, the on-peak period shifts to 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The mid-peak period is 7 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m., and the off-peak period is 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Additional details are on the OEB’s website.
  • The OEB made an announcement regarding their regional planning process. In December 2021, the Regional Planning Process Advisory Group (RPPAG) released a report for the OEB with a number of recommended changes to the regional planning process. The OEB published a letter on April 28th with a schedule for implementing the changes recommended in the report. Among the recommendations, the OEB will issue a new bulletin to communities that they have a choice to opt for a “premium” solution (i.e. distributed energy resources, rather than wires) to reflect “local preferences” and the cost responsibility for the premium option beginning in Q2 this year.
Industry News

Corporate Social Responsibility

CORPORATE GIVING PROGRAM UPDATE:

  • 2022 Budget: $11,914
  • Amount spent to date: $3,526

RECENT CORPORATE GIVING RECIPIENTS:

  • Clarington Community Gala
  • Film Access Northumberland
  • Scientists in School
  • The Denise House
Corporate Social Responsibility

“Scientists in School is grateful for the support of Elexicon Energy through their Corporate Giving Program. Through our partnership we have helped to deepen impact across our mutual service communities for our mission to ignite scientific curiosity in young learners. Complimentary engaging, investigative classroom workshops in elementary schools have helped to heighten STEM confidence and interest, and build bridges to bright futures and a thoughtful citizenry. Thank you to Elexicon Energy for believing in the importance of STEM enrichment education for local children and youth.”

– Cindy Adams, Executive Director

Scientists in School

“At The Denise House we hold therapeutic wellness groups for our women. Our groups provide a safe and supportive environment for women to share, heal and support one another. An evaluation and check in are completed after every group, and women will often share how helpful the information was for their understanding of abuse and their new beginning. We are grateful for the support we receive from Elexicon Energy as your donations have helped to fund these groups and purchase the tools needed to encourage interaction, discovery and play. Thank you ALL so much!”

– Dena Sicard, Fund Development & Community Connector

The Denise House

Township of Scugog

Image for scugog

We proudly serve 2,400 residential and business customers in the Township of Scugog with reliable and affordable energy services.

The Community Reports support our commitment to transparency and keeping our shareholder communities up to date on our activities more frequently. The reports include information on Customer Service, System Reliability, Operations and Asset Improvements, Communications and Thought Leadership, Innovation and Sustainability, Industry News and Corporate Social Responsibility.

Have a question or require more information? communications@elexiconenergy.com

Customer Experience

  • The Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”) announced no changes to Time-of-Use (“TOU”) and Tiered electricity rates for May 1st, 2022. However, May 1st marks the start of the summer TOU hours and Tiered thresholds. This change impacts all customers under the Regulated Price Plan (RPP).
  • The OEB’s residential Winter Disconnection Banended on April 30th. Elexicon Energy has resumed regular business practices of disconnecting customers (all customer classes) for non-payment with a focus on those customers who have the highest arrears. Elexicon has also resumed disconnections for customers who have not contracted for service (nonsign-up).
  • Residential and small business customers can choose their price plan, either TOU or Tiered pricing. Customers are not required to select a price plan but if they wish to switch, they must notify Elexicon by completing and submitting an election form. As of June 30th, 5,994 Elexicon customers (or 3.4 per cent) have changed their pricing structure or are in the process of doing so.
  • There are financial assistance programs in place to support customers, including the Ontario Electricity Support Programand the Low-income Energy Assistance Program. Elexicon continues to encourage customers experiencing difficulty paying their bill to contact us to discuss bill payment options.
  • Elexicon values its customers, and our Customer Experience team strives to provide customers with assistance in a timely and respectful manner. Provided below are the number of calls and written enquires our Customer Experience team received and responded to in Q2 2022.
    • Phone Calls

    April: 7,316

    May: 9,601

    June: 9,020

    TOTAL: 25,937

    Written Enquiries

    April: 999

    May: 1,017

    June: 1,397

    TOTAL: 3,413

System Reliability

More than 2,300 homes and businesses in the Township of Scugog depend on a steady supply of electricity to power their lives. Elexicon Energy takes service reliability very seriously, and continues to monitor and mitigate any trends to ensure system reliability.

System Reliability
The average number of hours that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 0.00 compared to 0.14 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Defective Equipment:
4 hrs compared to 4 hrs in Q2 2021

Unknown/Other:
3 hrs compared to 0 hrs in Q2 2021

TOTAL OUTAGE DURATION IN CUSTOMER HOURS:

8 hrs in Q2 2022 compared to 1,779 hrs in Q2 2021

System Reliability
The average number of times that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 0.00 compared to 0.06 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Unknown/Other:
1 outage compared to 0 outages in Q2 2021

Defective Equipment:
1 outage compared to 2 outages in Q2 2021

TOTAL NUMBER OF OUTAGES:

2 in Q2 2022 compared to 4 in Q2 2021

Operations and Asset Improvements

Operations and Asset Improvements
  • Nothing to report at this time.

Communications and Thought Leadership

  • April is Dig Safe Month, and Elexicon Energy joined forces with Alectra Utilities, Hydro One, Hydro Ottawa and Toronto Hydro, to encourage customers to contact Ontario One Call to have their underground utilities located before digging, planting or starting any outdoor projects.
  • Elexicon Energy has partnered with the Region of Durham on another unique initiative. The Durham Greener Homes Program is a region-wide residential energy retrofit program designed to support homeowners as they navigate through the deep energy retrofit process in an effort to lower their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The Government of Ontario announced that it is launching an Electrification and Energy Transition Panel. The Panel will make recommendations for an integrated energy plan that ensures continued reliability and affordability of the province’s energy supply. Elexicon Energy sees this panel as a step in the right direction for encouraging dialogue across the sector and issued this statement applauding the announcement.
  • Elexicon Energy’s President and CEO, Indrani Butany-DeSouza, spoke at the EUCI’s Leadership Conference for Women in Energy that ran from April 20th to 21st. Indrani had this to say on the topic of women in leadership, “As a woman leader, I cannot stress enough that we all have the opportunity to lift others up. We do not need to lead like a man. We need to get out of our own way and take up our space at the table and make room for others.”
  • Indrani also participated on a panel as part of the CAMPUT Conference that took place May 1st to 4th. The discussion touched on a number of different aspects of the industry and the challenges ahead. Indrani said this, “The energy industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in decades. With a strong focus on achieving net zero carbon emission targets, renewable energy generation is quickly evolving to a scale within reach of the average consumer. It’s important to bring the right people to the table to have these conversations and determine how a more salient symbiotic relationship can be reached between the consumer, the grid and energy ecosystem.”
  • Indrani also spoke at Electricity Canada as part of the Regulatory Forum Panel. Reflecting on the experience she said, “For all of us it was clear, in the longer term, the cost of inaction on climate change is higher than the cost of action. However, this may present some challenges to regulators and regulated companies as costs could increase in the short to medium term. We need defined criteria for the types of sustainability and innovation projects that local distribution companies can undertake. At the same time, we need to remain focused on affordability, safety and reliability for all our customers.”
  • On June 23, Elexicon Corporation, the single shareholder and holding company of Elexicon Energy and Elexicon Group, released its 2021 Annual Report as well as its first Corporate, Environmental and Social Responsibility (CESR) Report to its shareholders at its Annual General Meeting.
  • For the first time since 2019, the City of Pickering’s Civic Award Ceremony was hosted in person at City Hall to recognize the outstanding achievements of residents, local businesses and community organizations. Winners are nominated by peers and residents for their outstanding contributions to the community. The winner of the Sustainability Award was Elexicon Energy, Marshall Homes and Opus One Solutions for creating Altona Towns – Canada’s first pre-planned residential microgrid community located in west Pickering.
Communications Thought Leadership

Innovation and Sustainability

Innovation and Sustainability
  • The Electricity Distributors Association (“EDA”) released a paper titled, "The Power of Sustainability: How Local Distribution Companies Can Enable a Net Zero Future." In the paper, the EDA makes recommendations about the evolving role of local distribution companies and guidance required from the Ontario Energy Board. The same recommendations from the report were included in a letter to Minister Steven Guilbeault with feedback on the Clean Electricity Standard.
  • The Canadian Climate Institute issued a report on May 4th titled The Big Switch. A previous report by the thinktank found that clean electricity and electrification underpin all credible economy-wide pathways to net zero. The current report states that in order to meet net zero targets two actions are needed: natural gas and coal need to be replaced with cleaner technologies, and vehicles need to move from gasoline to electricity. This all adds up to a lot more demand for electricity. The new report found that in 2050, Canada will need to have 2.2 to 3.4 more installed capacity. The report also makes recommendations for the role federal and provincial governments should take in the transition.
  • The Ministry of Energy is considering offering a reduced electricity rate to hydrogen producers in Ontario in an effort to quickly grow Ontario’s low-carbon hydrogen economy. Generally, there seems to be favour in the industry to this approach. However, LDCs and the EDA have noted that LDCs would need to have more discussions to sort out the details on how this could be offered.

Industry News

  • The government made amendments to Ontario’s net metering regulation (O. Reg. 541/05), under the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998, and consequential amendments to O. Reg. 389/10 (General) under the Energy Consumer Protection Act, 2010. The changes clarify and enable third-party ownership arrangements for net metering, such as leasing, financing and power purchase agreements, providing electricity customers in Ontario more options to participate in net metering. Prior to the amendments, the net metering regulation required the customer to own or operate the renewable generation system to qualify as an eligible generator. Additional details available on the province's website.
  • Proclamation of Bill 87, on October 1, 2020, launched a clear mandate for change at the Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”). A new governance framework, along with mandate letters outlining the government’s priorities, established the formal authority to drive modernization, enhance public trust, promote accountability, and deliver value for money for the people of Ontario. The OEB created an online timeline of the work completed on modernization to date.
  • The Electricity Distributors Association published the spring 2022 issue of their magazine, The Distributor. This issue celebrates the organization’s 110th year and includes a brief history of the sector and other industry news. The magazine is available for reading online here.
  • Summer time-of-use (TOU) rates came into effect on May 1st. During the summertime, the on-peak period shifts to 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The mid-peak period is 7 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m., and the off-peak period is 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Additional details are on the OEB’s website.
  • The OEB made an announcement regarding their regional planning process. In December 2021, the Regional Planning Process Advisory Group (RPPAG) released a report for the OEB with a number of recommended changes to the regional planning process. The OEB published a letter on April 28th with a schedule for implementing the changes recommended in the report. Among the recommendations, the OEB will issue a new bulletin to communities that they have a choice to opt for a “premium” solution (i.e. distributed energy resources, rather than wires) to reflect “local preferences” and the cost responsibility for the premium option beginning in Q2 this year.
Industry News

Corporate Social Responsibility

CORPORATE GIVING PROGRAM UPDATE:

  • 2022 Budget: $5,015
  • Amount spent to date: $1,311

RECENT CORPORATE GIVING RECIPIENTS:

  • Alzheimer Society of Durham
  • Durham Kids Safety Village
  • Durham Region Hospice
  • Port Perry High School Bursary
  • Scientists in School
  • The Denise House
Corporate Social Responsibility

"Elexicon Energy’s support of the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region helps provide counselling, support and education for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias and their families. Your generous contribution helps ensure those living with dementia have access to the services they need, and their families and care partners are supported and prepared for the journey ahead. Thank you for investing in our community and helping to improve the quality of life for those impacted by dementia in Durham Region.”

– Kendel Ferrara, Director of Philanthropy

Alzheimer Society of Durham Region

“Scientists in School is grateful for the support of Elexicon Energy through their Corporate Giving Program. Through our partnership we have helped to deepen impact across our mutual service communities for our mission to ignite scientific curiosity in young learners. Complimentary engaging, investigative classroom workshops in elementary schools have helped to heighten STEM confidence and interest, and build bridges to bright futures and a thoughtful citizenry. Thank you to Elexicon Energy for believing in the importance of STEM enrichment education for local children and youth.”

– Cindy Adams, Executive Director

Scientists in School

“At The Denise House we hold therapeutic wellness groups for our women. Our groups provide a safe and supportive environment for women to share, heal and support one another. An evaluation and check in are completed after every group, and women will often share how helpful the information was for their understanding of abuse and their new beginning. We are grateful for the support we receive from Elexicon Energy as your donations have helped to fund these groups and purchase the tools needed to encourage interaction, discovery and play. Thank you ALL so much!”

– Dena Sicard, Fund Development & Community Connector

The Denise House

Township of Uxbridge

Image for uxbridge

We proudly serve 1,600 residential and business customers in the Township of Uxbridge with reliable and affordable energy services.

The Community Reports support our commitment to transparency and keeping our shareholder communities up to date on our activities more frequently. The reports include information on Customer Service, System Reliability, Operations and Asset Improvements, Communications and Thought Leadership, Innovation and Sustainability, Industry News and Corporate Social Responsibility.

Have a question or require more information? communications@elexiconenergy.com

Customer Experience

  • The Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”) announced no changes to Time-of-Use (“TOU”) and Tiered electricity rates for May 1st, 2022. However, May 1st marks the start of the summer TOU hours and Tiered thresholds. This change impacts all customers under the Regulated Price Plan (RPP).
  • The OEB’s residential Winter Disconnection Banended on April 30th. Elexicon Energy has resumed regular business practices of disconnecting customers (all customer classes) for non-payment with a focus on those customers who have the highest arrears. Elexicon has also resumed disconnections for customers who have not contracted for service (nonsign-up).
  • Residential and small business customers can choose their price plan, either TOU or Tiered pricing. Customers are not required to select a price plan but if they wish to switch, they must notify Elexicon by completing and submitting an election form. As of June 30th, 5,994 Elexicon customers (or 3.4 per cent) have changed their pricing structure or are in the process of doing so.
  • There are financial assistance programs in place to support customers, including the Ontario Electricity Support Programand the Low-income Energy Assistance Program. Elexicon continues to encourage customers experiencing difficulty paying their bill to contact us to discuss bill payment options.
  • Elexicon values its customers, and our Customer Experience team strives to provide customers with assistance in a timely and respectful manner. Provided below are the number of calls and written enquires our Customer Experience team received and responded to in Q2 2022.
    • Phone Calls

    April: 7,316

    May: 9,601

    June: 9,020

    TOTAL: 25,937

    Written Enquiries

    April: 999

    May: 1,017

    June: 1,397

    TOTAL: 3,413

System Reliability

More than 1,500 homes and businesses in the Township of Uxbridge depend on a steady supply of electricity to power their lives. Elexicon Energy takes service reliability very seriously, and continues to monitor and mitigate any trends to ensure system reliability.

The numbers provided below do not include major weather events, such as the May 21st powerful derecho storm that blew across southern and eastern Ontario spawning an EF2 tornado in Uxbridge resulting in the township declaring a state of emergency. More than 900,000 homes and businesses were left without power across Ontario and Quebec, including 64,000 Elexicon Energy customers at its peak. The damage was unprecedented and more devastating on our electricity distribution system than the historic ice storm in 2013. Our Uxbridge West Substation was severely damaged and required significant repairs, more than 100 poles needed replacing, and many trees and large branches brought down power lines.

System Reliability
The average number of hours that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 1.36 compared to 0.02 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Foreign Interference*:
2,097 hrs compared to 5 hrs in Q2 2021

Defective Equipment:
37 hrs compared to 29 hrs in Q2 2021

Scheduled Outage**:
24 hrs compared to 0 hrs in Q2 2021

TOTAL OUTAGE DURATION IN CUSTOMER HOURS:

2,171 hrs in Q2 2022 compared to 38 hrs in Q2 2021

System Reliability
The average number of times that power to a customer was interrupted in Q2 2022 was 0.55 compared to 0.01 in Q2 2021.

TOP THREE REASONS FOR OUTAGE DURATION IN Q2 2022:

Foreign Interference*:
1 outage compared to 1 outage in Q2 2021

Scheduled Outage**:
1 outage compared to 0 outages in Q2 2021

Tree Contact:
1 outage compared to 1 outage in Q2 2021

TOTAL NUMBER OF OUTAGES:

5 in Q2 2022 compared to 3 in Q2 2021

*The Ontario Energy Board describes foreign interference as interruptions beyond the control of the distributor such as those caused by animals, vehicles, dig-ins, vandalism, sabotage and other foreign interference.

**To ensure that our electricity distribution network operates in peak condition, Elexicon conducts important maintenance and construction work that sometimes requires planned power interruptions.

Operations and Asset Improvements

Operations and Asset Improvements
  • Underway: Tree trimming activity in areas throughout Uxbridge. The proactive work and preventative maintenance helps ensure public safety and the reliable operation of our distribution system during major weather events. The work started on March 21st and should be wrapped up by June 30th, 2022.

Communications and Thought Leadership

  • April is Dig Safe Month, and Elexicon Energy joined forces with Alectra Utilities, Hydro One, Hydro Ottawa and Toronto Hydro, to encourage customers to contact Ontario One Call to have their underground utilities located before digging, planting or starting any outdoor projects.
  • Elexicon Energy has partnered with the Region of Durham on another unique initiative. The Durham Greener Homes Program is a region-wide residential energy retrofit program designed to support homeowners as they navigate through the deep energy retrofit process in an effort to lower their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The Government of Ontario announced that it is launching an Electrification and Energy Transition Panel. The Panel will make recommendations for an integrated energy plan that ensures continued reliability and affordability of the province’s energy supply. Elexicon Energy sees this panel as a step in the right direction for encouraging dialogue across the sector and issued this statement applauding the announcement.
  • Elexicon Energy’s President and CEO, Indrani Butany-DeSouza, spoke at the EUCI’s Leadership Conference for Women in Energy that ran from April 20th to 21st. Indrani had this to say on the topic of women in leadership, “As a woman leader, I cannot stress enough that we all have the opportunity to lift others up. We do not need to lead like a man. We need to get out of our own way and take up our space at the table and make room for others.”
  • Indrani also participated on a panel as part of the CAMPUT Conference that took place May 1st to 4th. The discussion touched on a number of different aspects of the industry and the challenges ahead. Indrani said this, “The energy industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in decades. With a strong focus on achieving net zero carbon emission targets, renewable energy generation is quickly evolving to a scale within reach of the average consumer. It’s important to bring the right people to the table to have these conversations and determine how a more salient symbiotic relationship can be reached between the consumer, the grid and energy ecosystem.”
  • Indrani also spoke at Electricity Canada as part of the Regulatory Forum Panel. Reflecting on the experience she said, “For all of us it was clear, in the longer term, the cost of inaction on climate change is higher than the cost of action. However, this may present some challenges to regulators and regulated companies as costs could increase in the short to medium term. We need defined criteria for the types of sustainability and innovation projects that local distribution companies can undertake. At the same time, we need to remain focused on affordability, safety and reliability for all our customers.”
  • On June 23, Elexicon Corporation, the single shareholder and holding company of Elexicon Energy and Elexicon Group, released its 2021 Annual Report as well as its first Corporate, Environmental and Social Responsibility (CESR) Report to its shareholders at its Annual General Meeting.
  • For the first time since 2019, the City of Pickering’s Civic Award Ceremony was hosted in person at City Hall to recognize the outstanding achievements of residents, local businesses and community organizations. Winners are nominated by peers and residents for their outstanding contributions to the community. The winner of the Sustainability Award was Elexicon Energy, Marshall Homes and Opus One Solutions for creating Altona Towns – Canada’s first pre-planned residential microgrid community located in west Pickering.
Communications Thought Leadership

Innovation and Sustainability

Innovation and Sustainability
  • The Electricity Distributors Association (“EDA”) released a paper titled, "The Power of Sustainability: How Local Distribution Companies Can Enable a Net Zero Future." In the paper, the EDA makes recommendations about the evolving role of local distribution companies and guidance required from the Ontario Energy Board. The same recommendations from the report were included in a letter to Minister Steven Guilbeault with feedback on the Clean Electricity Standard.
  • The Canadian Climate Institute issued a report on May 4th titled The Big Switch. A previous report by the thinktank found that clean electricity and electrification underpin all credible economy-wide pathways to net zero. The current report states that in order to meet net zero targets two actions are needed: natural gas and coal need to be replaced with cleaner technologies, and vehicles need to move from gasoline to electricity. This all adds up to a lot more demand for electricity. The new report found that in 2050, Canada will need to have 2.2 to 3.4 more installed capacity. The report also makes recommendations for the role federal and provincial governments should take in the transition.
  • The Ministry of Energy is considering offering a reduced electricity rate to hydrogen producers in Ontario in an effort to quickly grow Ontario’s low-carbon hydrogen economy. Generally, there seems to be favour in the industry to this approach. However, LDCs and the EDA have noted that LDCs would need to have more discussions to sort out the details on how this could be offered.

Industry News

  • The government made amendments to Ontario’s net metering regulation (O. Reg. 541/05), under the Ontario Energy Board Act, 1998, and consequential amendments to O. Reg. 389/10 (General) under the Energy Consumer Protection Act, 2010. The changes clarify and enable third-party ownership arrangements for net metering, such as leasing, financing and power purchase agreements, providing electricity customers in Ontario more options to participate in net metering. Prior to the amendments, the net metering regulation required the customer to own or operate the renewable generation system to qualify as an eligible generator. Additional details available on the province's website.
  • Proclamation of Bill 87, on October 1, 2020, launched a clear mandate for change at the Ontario Energy Board (“OEB”). A new governance framework, along with mandate letters outlining the government’s priorities, established the formal authority to drive modernization, enhance public trust, promote accountability, and deliver value for money for the people of Ontario. The OEB created an online timeline of the work completed on modernization to date.
  • The Electricity Distributors Association published the spring 2022 issue of their magazine, The Distributor. This issue celebrates the organization’s 110th year and includes a brief history of the sector and other industry news. The magazine is available for reading online here.
  • Summer time-of-use (TOU) rates came into effect on May 1st. During the summertime, the on-peak period shifts to 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The mid-peak period is 7 to 11 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m., and the off-peak period is 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Additional details are on the OEB’s website.
  • The OEB made an announcement regarding their regional planning process. In December 2021, the Regional Planning Process Advisory Group (RPPAG) released a report for the OEB with a number of recommended changes to the regional planning process. The OEB published a letter on April 28th with a schedule for implementing the changes recommended in the report. Among the recommendations, the OEB will issue a new bulletin to communities that they have a choice to opt for a “premium” solution (i.e. distributed energy resources, rather than wires) to reflect “local preferences” and the cost responsibility for the premium option beginning in Q2 this year.
Industry News

Corporate Social Responsibility

CORPORATE GIVING PROGRAM UPDATE:

  • 2022 Budget: $3,295
  • Amount spent to date: $2,811

RECENT CORPORATE GIVING RECIPIENTS:

  • Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation
  • Alzheimer Society of Durham Region
  • Durham Kids Safety Village
  • Durham Region Hospice
  • Girls Inc. of Durham
  • Knights of Columbus
  • Scientists in School
  • The Denise House
  • Uxbridge Loaves & Fishes Food Bank
Corporate Social Responsibility

"Elexicon Energy is a true community company. One that not only supports the Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation financially, but is always there to help at events as volunteers, with equipment and much more. Happy to be the Title Sponsor for the Inaugural Bike For Bones Ride, Elexicon traveled the path with us and was an integral partner in the success of the event. Working alongside companies like Elexicon, where the employees work and live in the community they supply, is what makes our community the best place to be!”

– Tracy Paterson, CEO

Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation

“Elexicon Energy’s support of the Alzheimer Society of Durham Region helps provide counselling, support and education for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias and their families. Your generous contribution helps ensure those living with dementia have access to the services they need, and their families and care partners are supported and prepared for the journey ahead. Thank you for investing in our community and helping to improve the quality of life for those impacted by dementia in Durham Region.”

– Kendel Ferrara, Director of Philanthropy

Alzheimer Society of Durham Region

“Girls are critical to ensuring our STEM industries are innovative, diverse, and responsive to the needs of our society. With the support of Elexicon, Girls Inc. of Durham has been able to provide girls in Durham Region at our after-school programming with the opportunity to discover and develop skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through hands-on activities, girls explore, ask questions, persist, and solve problems. Trained programming staff nurture and develop STEM dreams where girls do the hard work of rising to challenges, taking positive risks and reaching their goals. Our girls rise because of the support of companies like Elexicon!”

– Tracy McCannell, Director of Programming

Girls Inc. of Durham

“Scientists in School is grateful for the support of Elexicon Energy through their Corporate Giving Program. Through our partnership we have helped to deepen impact across our mutual service communities for our mission to ignite scientific curiosity in young learners. Complimentary engaging, investigative classroom workshops in elementary schools have helped to heighten STEM confidence and interest, and build bridges to bright futures and a thoughtful citizenry. Thank you to Elexicon Energy for believing in the importance of STEM enrichment education for local children and youth.”

– Cindy Adams, Executive Director

Scientists in School

“After the tornado (derecho) that hit Uxbridge in May 2022, the Uxbridge Loaves & Fishes Food Bank shifted into emergency response mode. We opened our doors to assist all members of the community that needed our help. The generous donation we received from Elexicon Energy helped us provide for our residents and support them through that very difficult time. We are so grateful.”

– Heather Stover, Donation Coordinator & Community Liaison

Uxbridge Loaves & Fishes Food Bank