Ontario Regulation 133/23, made under the Electricity Act 1998, introduces amendments to the existing regulations governing smart metering in the province. This regulation primarily focuses on refining the definition of billing quantity data and outlining the operational objectives of the Smart Metering Entity (SME).

One of the key changes is the revocation of the previous definition of “billing quantity data” in Ontario Regulation 393/07, which has been replaced with a clearer and more detailed definition. The new definition specifies that billing quantity data refers to smart metering data that is ready for billing consumers based on the time of day when electricity was consumed, as well as data related to electricity conveyed into a distributor’s system, also prepared for billing based on consumption timing.

The regulation introduces new objectives for the SME to enhance its role in the electricity market. The SME is now tasked with collecting, managing, and storing data related to electricity metering, including data from various distributors. Furthermore, the regulation mandates that the SME must provide fair access to this data and the necessary telecommunication systems for distributors, retailers, and other entities, while ensuring compliance with privacy conditions in its license. The SME is also authorized to own, lease, and operate the technological equipment needed to facilitate data transfer about electricity to and from its databases.

Several modifications have been made to existing regulations, adjusting the language and provisions related to the management of billing quantity data. These changes clarify that the SME’s operations must align with its newly defined objectives, particularly in relation to the updated definition of billing quantity data.

The changes introduced by Ontario Regulation 133/23 aim to modernize the management and utilization of electricity metering data in Ontario. By clearly defining billing quantity data and specifying the responsibilities of the SME, the regulation seeks to enhance transparency and efficiency in billing practices. The emphasis on non-discriminatory access to data is particularly important as it intends to foster fairness among market participants and aims to improve competition within the electricity sector.

Ontario (133/23) July 8, 2023