Utilities Consumer Advocate: Farm frequently asked questions

Check out these frequently asked questions farm consumer's have about electricity, natural gas, and water.

Utility retailer options differ based on the property location.

To learn what options are available visit the Retailers and Distributors page and enter in the farm’s location to see the retailers of electricity and natural gas in that area. Depending on the location a local Rural Electrification Association (REA), Natural Gas Co-Op, competitive retailer, or default retailer may service the site.

REA’s and Natural gas co-ops serve specific geographic areas. REAs can either offer electricity rates for members at the rate outlined in a contract or permit consumers to sign a contract with a retailer of choice. Consumers that are in natural gas co-op areas are required to receive services from the co-op.  

The Cost Comparison Tool can help consumers see the retailer rates and products based on user type and location.

Timing of utility set up may impact available options.

The availability of utility retailers varies by geographic location. While much of Alberta has the choice between competitive and default retailers, some rural areas are exclusively served by Rural Electrification Associations (REA) and Natural Gas Co-Ops. Other areas may only be served by the default retailer.

Consumers can look for existing electricity and natural gas equipment like an electricity or gas meter. Consumers can also contact their distribution company to help locate equipment and infrastructure for electricity and natural gas.

Utility companies may need to access a property to carry out installation, maintenance, construction, or vegetation management. This is outlined in the utility contract terms and conditions as an easement or right-of-way.

A land title may include an easement or right-of-way agreement for utility company access. If an agreement was established by the previous owner, it remains valid and automatically transfers to the new owner upon sale of property.

An easement or right-of-way is an agreement which grants an individual, company, or municipality the right to use a landowner’s property. It is the legal right to use or enter onto a part of another property without possessing or owning that property.

Rural Electrification Associations (REA) may elect to use a wire services provider. The wire service provider can carry out line installation and maintenance, meter reading, and restoring power during an outage. The REA can provide details about the existing service arrangement.

The signals transmitted by smart meters are low power are only transmit a signal in short bursts. Smart meter devices meet standards set by Measurement Canada and Health Canada to ensure they do not exceed the radiofrequency electromagnetic fields exposure limits.

Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation

Government of Alberta programs and resources, including an irrigation energy cost calculator.

Alberta Federation of Rural Electrification Associations (AFREA)

Find contact information and REA's by area.

Alberta Federation of Rural Water Co-operatives LTD

Find a list of co-operatives and educational resources.

Federation of Alberta Gas Co-ops

Find maps, natural gas co-ops, and educational resources.

Alberta Land Surveyors Association (ALSA)

Advice and information about boundaries for easements or rights-of-way.

The UCA is here to help