How to Switch Energy Suppliers in Alberta in Five Easy Steps
Are you interested in changing energy suppliers but are not sure how it works? Our step-by-step guide will show you that it's not as complicated as you might think!
Figure Out Your Energy Needs
Your first step in choosing your energy supplier is to estimate how much energy you consume. It is a good idea to know how much you consume on a monthly basis, as this will help you understand which components of the price of electricity or gas are most important in your bill. For example, smaller energy consumers will find that monthly administration charges are a more important factor in comparing offers, whereas energy rates are more important for larger energy consumers.
Did you know? The average Albertan household consumes about 7200 kWh electricity per year, or 600 - 700 kWh per month
You should also think about what are the most important factors in your choice of energy retailer. Are you looking for a better price? Do you want to switch to green energy? Or are you interested in supporting a local Albertan business? It is a good idea to already have a few ideas in mind regarding what you're looking for in an energy retailer.
Start Comparing!
Once you have an idea of what your priorities for your energy are, it's time to start comparing! With over 25 competitive energy retailers in Alberta, you have a wide range of options for your energy supply. Keep in mind that rates are only one component of your energy costs; if you're interested in finding the lowest price for your energy, don't forget to also check out monthly administration charges.
Interested in green energy? Check out our comparison of green energy offers in Alberta
It is also a good idea to check out the terms and conditions of the retailers you are interested in before signing up, as each competitive retailer may have different policies regarding aspects such as cancellation or late payment fees. Don't forget to compare competitive energy retailer prices and terms and conditions with those of your local regulated rate provider, to make sure that switching is worth your while.
Sign Up With Your Chosen Competitive Energy Retailer
Once you've chosen the price option and retailer that is best for you, it's time to sign up! Most energy retailers require the following information for sign-up:
Your name
Your new address for service
The number of a piece of government-issued ID (a driver's license, for example)
The billing address (if it is different from the service address)
Home and work phone number for the person being billed, and email
The date of connection
Depending on the retailer, you may be required to pay a security deposit, or accept to have a check performed on your credit history.
Wait for Your Energy Supplier to be Switched
Your chosen competitive energy retailer should be able to let you know how long it will take for your energy supply to be switched. Depending on the retailer this can take a minimum of three business days' notice or up to 90 days. But don't worry, your energy supply should never be interrupted! Your distribution utility will continue to supply energy to your home, regardless of who your supplier is. If you are switching from a regulated rate provider to a competitive energy retailer, you will continue to pay the regulated rate as you wait for your energy supply to be switched
Enjoy Your New Service!
That's it! You'll know that your energy supply has been switched when you receive a bill from your new competitive energy retailer. Except in the event of a power outage, they should be the first point of contact for any question or concern you might have about your energy.