Are you a first-time utility customer in Alberta?

Updated on October 11, 2023
9-minute read

Are you a first-time utility customer in Alberta?

Updated on October 11, 2023
9-minute read

Whether you're new to Alberta or moving into a new house or apartment for the first time, you'll need to set up your home utilities before moving day arrives. Here's everything you need to know about setting up electricity and natural gas for the first time, choosing your energy provider, and finding a rate option that best suits your needs!

Select a category to find the information you need:

Your energy options
Considerations and glossary
Quick tips: before and after you move
How to sign-up
Moving checklist

What is the difference between competitive retailers and regulated rate?

Depending on where you live in Alberta, you typically have two options when buying electricity and natural gas - the regulated rate or sign up with a retail energy provider like Direct Energy.

Competitive retail rates (or deregulated rates) are the current electricity and natural gas prices offered by retail energy providers and give you the option to choose the energy plan that's best for you.

Regulated rates are the default option for anyone who has yet to select a retailer or prefers a month-to-month rate without a contract. The regulated rate (electric and natural gas for regulated) can fluctuate from month to month, depending on market conditions.

Learn more

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).

What to consider when shopping for energy plans

Rate

What's the difference between a fixed, variable or regulated rate? Fixed rates are guaranteed to stay the same rate per kilowatt (kWh) or gigajoule (GJ), regardless of market rate fluctuations during your contract term. However, variable and regulated rates are less predictable and can vary monthly according to market conditions. 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.

Retailer administration fees and terms

The administration fee is a fixed monthly fee that covers the costs related to billing you for electricity or natural gas, as well as providing customer service. This fee varies according to each retailer. However, transmission and distribution fees and delivery charges remain the same regardless of which retailer you choose. It's always good to read the fine print and compare retailer fees and terms before choosing an energy provider.

Plan benefits

It's worth considering energy plans that offer extra benefits and special perks that can add value to your service and lifestyle. At Direct Energy, we offer green energy options and free smart home products.

Term length

Consider what term length would fit best for your situation. For example, are you renting for a short time or prefer to keep the same rate for a while? Since Direct Energy offers plan terms for up to 60 months and charges no exit fees, getting a secured rate for a longer term may be beneficial.

Go to energy glossary

Quick tips: What to do before and after you move

Before you move

If this is your first time setting up electricity or natural gas in Alberta, here are some quick tips:

Contact your chosen energy provider. If you're new to the area or a first-time utility customer, contact the energy provider a month prior (or at least two weeks) to your move to allow time for your services to be turned on by your move-in date. If you are moving to a new residence now and require utilities to be set up immediately, you will most likely have to start with the Regulated Rate in your area since regulated providers can have your services turned on within 1-5 days.
Be prepared to provide information to set up service. New customers must provide their full name and contact information (phone number and email), service address, and desired service start date.
Are you renting? Confirm with your landlord or apartment management company what utility services are included with your rent if you're a tenant. Knowing which services you'll be responsible for setting up is helpful and will save you time.
Plan for additional fees. The distribution company for your area may request a deposit or charge a one-time fee for connection or disconnection. Direct Energy doesn't charge enrollment fees for electricity and natural gas services.
Confirm your services. Shortly before your move, call your energy provider again to confirm that your utilities will be transferred to your new address and confirm if you need any appointments to turn on service.

After you move

Here's what you should know after you arrive at your new residence

Make sure your services are on. If possible, check to see if your utilities are on before you settle in and start unpacking. Call your provider right away if your services are not turned on to resolve the issue as soon as possible.
Manage your account online. If you haven't already, sign up on your energy provider's website to manage your account online. Most account management portals allow you to set up automatic payments, get important notices, renew your plan and more.

How do I sign up for gas and electricity in Alberta?

Enrolling for service with Direct Energy is simple, and you can do it over the phone or via the web, depending upon your location in our service area. There will be no service interruptions, no hassles and you'll receive the same monthly bill as always from your local utility company.

Shop for your perfect plan

Compare plans to find one that matches your needs. We offer fixed and variable rate plans that allow you to bundle your electricity and natural gas on one bill. You also have the option to add a percentage of Green energy to the energy bundle or electricity plan of your choice.

Complete your order

Complete the sign-up process online in less than 10 minutes or call us. Be prepared to provide your contact information, service address, and desired service start date. That's it!

Are you a first-time utility customer in Alberta?

Are you a first-time utility customer in Alberta?

What is the difference between competitive retailers and regulated rate?