Tillsonburg’s local electricity utility could soon have a new owner, a change that will affect how power rates are set for roughly 8,600 homes and businesses. ERTH Corporation has applied to the Ontario Energy Board to buy 100 per cent of Tillsonburg Hydro Inc. from the Town of Tillsonburg.
The application follows a decision by Tillsonburg Town Council on April 21, 2026, to back a strategic collaboration between ERTH Power Corporation and the town-owned utility. If the energy board says yes, the Town of Tillsonburg would become the second biggest of 10 municipal shareholders in ERTH Corporation, and Tillsonburg Hydro would operate under the ERTH Power brand.
ERTH Power already delivers electricity to around 25,000 customers in 15 southwestern Ontario communities. Tillsonburg Hydro serves 8,600 customers across 24 square kilometres. Being so small has left Tillsonburg facing a steep bill for upgrades. Fixing aging systems and meeting growing demand as a standalone utility was expected to cost at least $29 million, which could more than double the fixed distribution portion of monthly utility bills for local residents.
The Ontario Energy Board will use a no-harm test to review the deal. The test is meant to make sure customers do not pay more or get worse service because of the transaction. Tillsonburg residents can take part in the board’s public hearing process and share their thoughts on the proposal.
ERTH Corporation is also working on buying Westario Power Inc. If both deals go through, ERTH Power would serve 30 communities across seven counties. Chris White, ERTH Corporation’s President and CEO, has spent more than 30 years in the energy sector and helped create ERTH Power by merging 10 Ontario utilities.
