What are smart meters and time-of-use (TOU) rates, and how do TOU rates affect my Bullfrog Power bill?
Smart meters and Time-of-Use (TOU) rates are energy management tools provided by utilities across Ontario to encourage homeowners to conserve electricity, and use electricity during off-peak hours when possible. Once installed, smart meters automatically record a home’s electricity consumption on an hourly basis. Time-of-use rates refer to the three different rates applied to electricity usage during the day—rates are highest during on-peak periods, and lowest during off-peak hours. Ultimately, by conserving electricity, adopting energy efficiency measures throughout the home and managing when electricity is used, Ontarians can save on electricity bills, and reduce their demand on the electricity grid.