Alberta’s electricity and natural gas consumers can choose to receive services from a default or competitive retailer.
When choosing a retailer, it is important to keep in mind that the rate is only one component of an electricity or natural gas bill. There are typically several additional costs associated with a utility plan including:
- Administration fees
- Transmission/distribution charges
- Local Access Fees/Municipal Franchise Fees
Some costs will vary depending upon the retailer charges. Transmission and distribution are set by the distributor and are the same for all consumers in the area, regardless of retailer.
Consumers can also consider these factors:
Default retailers |
Competitive retailers |
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Month-to-month commitment, no contract required |
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Set contract lengths (typically 1-5 years) |
For electricity, default retailers offer a stable rate known as the Rate of Last Resort (RoLR). For natural gas, default retailers offering a fluctuating rate known as the default rate tariff |
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Competitive retailers offer different rates such as fixed, variable, and micro-generation |
No incentives |
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Competitive retailers may offer incentives for signing contracts and promotional plans for short term discounts |
Cannot bundle services |
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Some competitive retailers allow consumers to bundle electricity and natural gas services onto one bill |
May require a deposit |
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May require a deposit |
Consumers are able to leave default retailers at any point without penalty |
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Consumers may be required to pay exit fees for leaving contracts early |
Setting up services
It typically takes 10 to 15 days to set up electricity and natural gas services with a competitive retailer after a plan is selected and a contract is signed. However, it can take up to 90 days depending on the specific situation. For consumers who need services sooner, the default retailer in the area will be able to serve them until a competitive contract can begin. It's important to check with the retailer when services can begin.
Rural Albertans
Albertans who live in rural communities may receive electricity services from a Rural Electrification Association (REA) and natural gas services from a Natural Gas Co-Op. Contact the local REA or natural gas co-op servicing the community for more information.
