Hydro bills could become more shocking with higher prices on the way

Get ready for a jolt from your hydro company.

Many people could see a jump of about 16 per cent when their next hydro bill arrives.

Brian Bentz, the chair of the Electricity Distributors Association and the CEO of Powerstream, told 680News three factors are at work.

"First item relates to the cost of the commodity of energy and that's known as the regulated price plan rate and that rate was changed."

In fact that rate was increased on May 1, but many are just starting to feel it.

Bentz added the HST, along with increased usage due to hot temperatures this summer will also contribute to higher bills for some.

According to Bentz, much of the money utilities charge don't actually go to them.