In other jurisdictions, the expectation has been that most savings would come from competition in generation. Customers can take their time to shop around and compare offers before making any decision to switch suppliers. The specific rates that will be charged to customers have not yet been determined. They will be known closer to market opening. The use of licenses will give the Ontario Energy Board a tool for ensuring market rule and regulatory compliance.
Licences also provide market participants with clear requirements and regulatory certainty.
Retailers need to be licensed to ensure they are financially solvent and technically competent, and do not leave customers facing potential supply interruptions. The changes will provide consumer choice. The new companies will operate in an open competitive environment. Customers will be able to shop around for an electricity provider where previously there was an electricity distribution monopoly. The City's and Brantford Hydro's ability to protect consumers from rate increases will be very limited.