What is an DR provider (aggregator)?

DR Providers (aggregators) are independent energy solution providers. Talk to a DR provider today and find out how you can participate in the Ontario Power Authority's DR 3 program.

• DR providers are companies that assemble the electricity demands of their clients into larger blocks of about 25 megawatts.
• The OPA uses aggregators to work with small and medium-sized companies to encourage demand response initiatives.
• DR providers gather together demand from a wide range of commercial and industrial users – could include dry-cleaning plants, hardware stores, large grocery stores, office buildings or industrial operations such as general manufacturers and mines.
• Risk is reduced for participating companies by using aggregators, which assemble a load portfolio with several different companies.

How it works.

• Activation of Demand Response occurs when the system supply cushion (generation resources less the requirements to meet system demand) is below pre-established levels set by the OPA. Approximately 60% of activation is expected to occur during summer months.
• Pre-determined action is implemented (either by the participant or automatically) to reduce participant's electricity demand for a specified period.
• The OPA pays DR Providers to provide guaranteed Demand Response (under the OPA's DR3 program).
• Participants are compensated based on their contract with the DR providers.

 

Related links:

Click here to find out more about Demand Response 3.

Click here for information on other available DR programs.