On October 1, 2025, Utilities Kingston marked its 25th anniversary as an integrated multi-utility company. But, for over a century, Utilities Kingston has been a cornerstone of reliable electricity distribution in Central Kingston, serving more than 28,000 customers on behalf of Kingston Hydro. With a network of over 5,000 distribution poles, 34 substation transformers, and nearly 700 km of overhead and underground lines, the utility ensures safe, consistent power delivery across the region.
What sets Utilities Kingston apart is its multi-utility model, which integrates electricity, water, gas, and broadband services under one umbrella. This approach streamlines operations, reduces costs, and enhances customer service—offering one point of contact for multiple services and coordinated infrastructure upgrades. It also ensures operational and investment decisions continue to be made locally and in the best interests of the community.
Innovation is at the heart of Utilities Kingston’s strategy. A key initiative is the creation of a Sustainability and Climate Action Branch, tasked with reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving infrastructure resilience. This team is developing a Climate Action Leadership Plan to guide future projects and conservation programs that promote energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Utilities Kingston is also actively involved in regional electricity planning, collaborating with other local distribution companies to ensure long-term energy reliability and support economic growth.
Connecting and Serving Customers
Performance metrics reflect their commitment to excellence to customers and their community. According to the OEB’s 2024 Scorecard, Kingston Hydro achieved:
- New residential/small business services connected on time = 100%
- Scheduled appointments met on time = 100%
- Customer telephone calls answered within 30 seconds = 85%
Continued investments in reliability and innovation
Municipal Substation No. 1 (MS1) is Kingston’s oldest substation, located inside a heritage building on lower Queen Street, providing safe and reliable electricity service to the downtown core. Utilities Kingston completed a major multi-year project here in 2023. The scope of work included replacing 44 kV transformers, breakers and switches on the west bus and upgrading 44 kV west bus protection.
The following equipment was installed, commissioned, and put into service:
- Three of six power transformers.
- Two 46 kV circuit breakers.
- 44 kV bus protection on the West Bus.
- New heating and cooling system.
As Kingston continues to grow, Utilities Kingston remains focused on delivering innovative, sustainable, and customer-focused electricity services—powering homes, businesses, and the future of the community.