‘Compassion’ program, strong safety record, $3.2 million profit mark Oshawa Power’s Q2 report
Published August 30, 2023 at 9:57 am
Steady profits balanced by payment assistance programs for those in need and a stellar safety record are the highlights of Oshawa Power’s second quarter financial report to the City of Oshawa.
The utility reported net revenues of $18,527,000 for the April 1-June 30 period. With expenses, interest and taxes the net revenue declared was $3,224,000.
The winter moratorium on disconnections has ended and Oshawa Power said they are “diligent” with collections, while working with customers to find flexible payment solutions. Although the company can now disconnect for non-payment, “this is always a last resort.”
Oshawa Power has also instituted a ‘Compassion Fund’ designed to help those who are facing difficulty from COVID-19 or another significant life event and do not qualify for existing programs. The fund, the utility declared, was developed “to help those who fall through the cracks.”
“Disconnecting service is a last resort and creates a cycle that is difficult for customers to get out of,” the statement read. “The compassion fund helps customers get their accounts back into good standing.”
Funds are limited and assistance is approved in the order that it is received, up to $150 per household.
Oshawa Power’s safety record has been something to get charged about as the utility has now gone 1.2 million hours with no lost time injuries. That means no lost time injuries since 2016.
“Training is an important contributor to this record, and training sessions have been scheduled for the team throughout 2023. Employees have always been encouraged to report any near misses or safety improvements, allowing us to keep improving our culture of safety in the workplace.”
The Q2 report will be heard next month when council and committee meetings ramp after the summer break.
