What is the Rate of Last Resort?

The Rate of Last Resort will be the name of the electricity rate for customers who have not chosen, or are not currently with, a competitive retailer. This is replacing the Regulated Rate Option (RRO). The rate will continue to change monthly until January 2025 when it will switch to a fixed rate product set every two years.

Why is the name of the Regulated Rate Option (RRO) changing?

The Government of Alberta has decided to rename Regulated Rate Option (RRO) to the Rate of Last Resort (ROLR). The government is concerned that the word “regulated” gives customers a false sense of security that the rate is protected. It believes this new name provides a more accurate description of the default electricity rate and will encourage Albertans to explore their other options, such as switching to a fixed-rate plan.

The name change to Rate of Last Resort may be in effect as early as May 2024, but changes to how the default electricity rate is calculated (described below) will not likely be in effect until January 1, 2025.

How will the Rate of Last Resort be different than the RRO?

Unlike the RRO which is set monthly, starting in January 2025, the Rate of Last Resort (default electricity rate) will be set every two years to avoid sudden spikes in pricing for customers.   

How do I know if I’m on the RRO? 

Check your electricity bill and if you’re receiving your electricity charges from Direct Energy Regulated Services, EPCOR RRO or ENMAX RRO, then you are on the RRO.

I’m on the RRO. What should I do?

Want to get off the RRO and get ahead of the government's changes? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We offer fixed-rate plans with no exit fees, a combined bill and other promotions. All you need to do is sign up for a fixed-rate plan online or give us a call at 1-855-452-8869.

Customers are free to purchase natural gas services or electricity services from a retailer of their choice. For a list of retailers, visit ucahelps.alberta.ca or call 310-4822 (toll free in Alberta).

Do I need to switch from the RRO/ROLR?

No, there is no requirement to leave the RRO or ROLR. 

Is the RRO for both electricity and gas?

No, RRO is a term used for regulated electricity only, so regulated natural gas won’t be affected by these regulation changes. 

While both the regulated natural gas rate and RRO are reviewed and approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission, gas and electricity prices are impacted by different market factors and are set independently. That's why we've noticed lower natural gas prices compared to higher electricity rates in the past year. Learn more about the benefits of regulated natural gas.

Will my regulated natural gas rate be affected?

If you are on our regulated natural gas rate, you can sit back and relax knowing that you are enjoying the lowest* natural gas rate in Alberta. Plus, our regulated natural gas rate is forecasted to remain low** throughout 2024!

Learn more about the benefits of regulated natural gas and how its price is determined.

What are the benefits of a fixed-rate plan?

Signing up for a fixed rate can help you avoid market volatility and ensure financial security through rate stability for as long as you need it. Plus, there are no enrollment or exit fees. When rates go back down or drop below your fixed rate, you can always switch to a market-based rate plan and take advantage of that lower rate. Also, for some, knowing exactly what you'll pay for electricity every month allows you to be financially prepared and offers peace of mind.