High hydro leads to some Christmas lights going dark in Windsor

Even Christmas is not immune from the anxiety surrounding rapidly rising hydro prices with several Windsor residents questioning whether they will string lights this year.

New homeowner Shari Richard says holiday lighting could be too much of a luxury.She plans to light up her tree, but likely won't decorate the outside of her home this year.

"I'm sad that I have to think about this,," she said. "It's frustrating when everybody works so hard for what they have and you have to think about this. You have to worry about it all the time."

But not everyone is willing to go without their festive lights. Robin Heath hasonce again put up thousands of lights at his east Windsor home.

Other residents feel the same. Garlatti Landscaping recently started a holiday decorating service, making people's home festive for anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000.

The company's business has increased this year, compared to last, explainedRyan Girard, grounds keeping manager.

"There's been quite a few more who signed up," he said.

LED lights have helped reduce the hydro cost as well. The lights are easier to install and use far less electricity, Girard said.