You can choose to stay on the regulated rate option or you can choose a competitive rate for your energy by signing a contract with a Competitive Retailer.
Regulated Retailers
Regulated Retailers in your area will bill you for your electricity and natural gas on a month to month basis and the rates will change each month. If you choose to get your service(s) from a Regulated Retailer, you will receive separate bills each month for each utility.
Find Regulated Retailers for electricity and natural gas in your area.
Customers who don't sign a contract for a competitive retailer for natural gas or electricity are defaulted to a Regulated Retailer. The regulated rates are reviewed and approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) and can change from month to month.
Competitive Retailers
You can choose a Competitive Retailer and sign their contract to receive services for electricity and/or natural gas for a specific period of time. Depending on what was agreed to in your contract, your rates could be fixed, variable, or a combination of both. If you are a new utilities customer, you may have to first connect your electricity and natural gas services with a Regulated Retailer.
It typically takes 10 to 15 days to set-up energy services. However, it can take up to 90 days depending on the specific situation. Check with your retailer of choice and confirm the date of when your new service will start.
Find Competitive Retailers in your area.
Things to Consider
While you can choose your retailer, your distributor is determined by where you are located in the province.
Rural Electrification Associations
Alberta Federation of Rural Electrification Associations (AFREA) (external link) provides support to their member REA's, please contact the AFREA directly if you have questions.
Some REAs offer electricity contracts for members in their territory. Contact your REA for more information. Learn more...
Natural Gas Co-ops
The Federation of Alberta Gas Co-ops provides support to their members, please contact the Federation directly if you have questions. Learn more...
Managing Monthly Payments
Many retailers offer different payment arrangements such as budget/equalized payment plans or average billing plans. To learn more, contact your utility retailer.
