How much does electricity cost in Montreal? (2026 Hydro-Québec rates)

Quick answer: The average 2-bedroom apartment with electric baseboards pays about $95/month in summer and $180/month in deep winter on Hydro-Québec Rate D. A house with electric heating can hit $350–$500/month in January and February. Use the calculator above for your specific situation.

The Rate D pricing structure (residential)

Hydro-Québec uses a 2-tier structure:

Why winter bills triple in Montreal

Quebec has the cheapest residential electricity in North America — but cold winters mean electric-heated homes can easily consume 2,500+ kWh in January. That pushes most of your usage into the higher 10.4¢ tier. Practical savings:

• Lower thermostats at night and when out — each degree saved cuts about 5% off heating costs. A programmable thermostat pays for itself in one winter.
• Heat pump: a properly sized cold-climate heat pump cuts winter heating bills 30–50% vs. baseboards in Montreal’s climate.
• Hydro-Québec winter credit: the “Hilo” program pays you to reduce consumption during cold-weather peak events. Pays $25–$200 per winter.
• LogisVert subsidies: up to $5,000 toward heat pumps, smart thermostats, and weatherization (income-based).

Equal Payments Plan: useful or not?

Hydro-Québec’s Equal Payments Plan averages your annual bill into 12 monthly amounts. Useful if: you have electric heat and budget tightly. Skip it if: you have gas heat or live in an apartment where rent includes heat — your bills are already flat. You can enroll any time via your Customer Space.

Hydro-Québec FAQ

How much is the average electricity bill in Montreal?

For a 2-bedroom apartment with electric baseboards, the annual average is about $135/month (around $95 in summer, $180 in winter). For a single-family home with electric heating, expect $220/month average ($120 summer, $400+ winter).

Why is my Hydro-Québec bill so high in February?

Because winter cold drives heating consumption above the 40 kWh/day tier, where electricity costs 55% more (10.4¢ vs 6.7¢). A typical Montreal home uses 4–5× more electricity in January than in August.

When does Hydro-Québec read my meter?

Hydro-Québec reads meters every 60 days. Between readings, bills are estimated based on past usage. If your real reading is much lower, you’ll see a credit on the next bill. Most meters in Montreal are now smart meters (compteurs nouvelle génération) read remotely.

What’s the Hilo program?

Hilo is Hydro-Québec’s smart-home demand-response program. You install Hilo thermostats and smart plugs; during winter cold events Hilo briefly lowers your heating in exchange for credits ($25–$200/winter). It’s free to join — equipment costs ~$1,200 but is often subsidized.

How do I switch my Hydro-Québec account when I move?

Call 1-888-385-7252 or use your Customer Space online at least 5 business days before your move date. You’ll need your new address, move-in date, and the previous occupant’s name. There’s no fee. Most Montreal moves happen July 1, so book early.

Can I get a deposit waived?

New customers without Quebec credit history may be asked for a deposit ($50–$200). Provide a credit report or a reference letter from a previous utility to waive it. Newcomers can submit a permit/contract showing legal residency to expedite.

Is electricity cheaper at night in Quebec?

Not by default. Standard Rate D has flat pricing all hours. Hydro-Québec offers Rate Flex D which gives a discount most hours but charges much higher prices during winter peak events (mornings/evenings on cold days). Worth it only with electric heat + flexibility to lower it during peaks.

Related Montreal tools

• Quebec Lease (Form F) Checker — verify your rent increase
• July 1 Moving Day Checklist
• Winter Tire Deadline Countdown

Sources: Hydro-Québec residential tariffs (April 2026). Rates approved by the Régie de l’énergie. Last updated May 2026.