With projected losses on the part of many of the smaller hydro providers, and the possibility of large increases in cost for consumers, one has to wonder if the concept of deregulation was really an excellent option for Ontarians. With petitions already raging through the province to return the pricing system to its original public state, the province must take a sincere look at the needs of its inhabitants. Through my planned research, I plan to discover the feasibility of changing the pricing system back. I propose that a two-year study period be granted, involving multiple research teams, allowing appropriate time to circulate and compare survey and solicited corporate data.
CONSUMER SURVEY.
The first fact that must be studied in this particular case is the level of consumer satisfaction with the new deregulation system. After the disastrous deregulation effects in California, meeting consumer's needs must be considered the primary goal. A general survey of all hydro customers in Ontario will provide the feedback necessary to determine their overall satisfaction. The survey will include questions relating to the costs, service and general systems implied by their power providers, while also containing an optional comments section. With intervention by the Provincial Government, making this survey a mandatory attachment with all power bills within a given month would be a great tool for ascertaining a good response. Should the response be great, it may be easy to quickly determine that the new system is ineffective solely based on the number of replies, as most people have a tendency to view surveys with bills as useless junk mail. If the response is minor, it may be simple to ascertain that the current system is doing an excellent job, unless stated otherwise. With this method of surveying, we allow all consumers to have their own say.
CORPORATE SURVEY.
As well, all hydro-providing company Presidents will receive surveys on their satisfaction with the new system.