Many residents here are starting to feel the pinch.
“There’s no doubt about it,” said Doug Sherwood, President of Centre Wellington Hydro. “A lot of people are finding themselves in uncharted financial waters these days.”
A few months ago, staff there started seeing late payments from customers who had never missed a due date. Sherwood has seen that happen before.
“We know that the majority of our customers are doing everything they can to pay on time,” he said. “But when shifts are cut back … it can take some time to adjust to the new financial realities. I know a lot of our customers … are thinking: What other choice do I have?”
But, he said, “They do have another choice.”
Although the utility is regulated by the Ontario Energy Board in terms of the rates it charges, it is given flexibility in terms of how it collects payment from customers.
Sherwood said to call.
“If you’re willing to demonstrate your commitment to speaking with us about your circumstances – if you’re willing to let us know what we can expect from you over the next few months – then you’ll discover that we’ll do everything we can to accommodate you and your family through this downturn.”
With flexible payment schedules for those with temporary financial difficulties, CW Hydro is offering advice on the best ways to achieve energy savings.
“The best way to manage your hydro bill is to reduce your consumption, not only for electricity, but water as well. We are prepared to work with any customers that ask for advice, on a one-to-one basis, or in small groups.”
But, he said, late or missed payments have to be addressed one way or the other. CW Hydro must pay its own hydro bill in full – within seven to ten days. “If enough customers miss enough payments, then CW Hydro will eventually lose the ability to pay its supplier on time, and that will have a negative impact on our credit rating.”
For more information or help, call CW Hydro at 519-843-2900 or email it at enquiries@cwhydro.ca.
