Starting a New Electricity Connection with FortisAlberta
Are you renovating or starting new construction in the FortisAlberta service territory and want to start a new electrical service line? Our guide outlines what you need to do to get your new service started.
It is a good idea to use professional help when undergoing complicated renovations. You can find a list of registered electrical contractors in Alberta on the Electrical Contractors Association of Alberta website.
Make a New Service Request
Your first step in getting a new electrical connection is to request service from FortisAlberta. This you can do by calling 310-WIRE (9473) and/or submitting a request online on the FortisAlberta website. You will have to specify service type and assessment class you are requesting (residential or farm), and will have to provide basic contact information (name, address, phone number), as well as the address of the new site and whether this is the first time that you have made this request.
Receive a Quote & Review Your Plans
FortisAlberta will then gather all necessary information and get in touch with you to set up a meeting with a FortisAlberta representative. They will establish an estimate of the cost of new service installation, and will send you a quote. This step will likely take five (5) to 15 days, but may take longer.
Detailed Design & Permits
Once you have reviewed and approved the quote, and made any necessary payments, FortisAlberta will get started on making a more detailed design. FortisAlberta will also order all necessary materials for construction. This step will also take approximately five days to two weeks, though could take longer.
Get a Site ID
In the meantime your next step is to get a Site Identification Number (Site ID). You can finda site ID application form on the FortisAlberta website. You will then need to email the completed form to [email protected], or fax to 403-514-5245.
Choose Your Energy Retailer
In order for your site to be energized, you will need to have first enrolled with an energy retailer for electricity supply. In Alberta you have a choice of who supplies your energy, so it is a good idea to shop around and check out your options ahead of time. You can request to have your site enrolled with your chosen retailer as soon as you have received your Site ID number. They will notify FortisAlberta that they are supplying electricity to your site ID, and they will submit a request to have your site energized once they receive notice that their enrollment is successful.
Construction
Before starting starts, and while FortisAlberta prepares (including establishing a project schedule, finalizing design details and ordering materials), you will need to obtain necessary permits and approvals (such as municipal) electrical permits. FortisAlberta may also need to seek external approvals on your behalf.
Don't forget to call Alberta One-Call at 1-800-242-3447 to submit a locate request (minimum two business days' notice required)
FortisAlberta will then assess impact to those around your site and schedule outages as necessary, and prepare for and complete construction. This part of the process can take anywhere from five to 15 days or more.
Get Energized!
Once construction is completed, you will need to call your chosen power retailer to get your meter connected. For this step you will need to provide your site ID, billing information (i.e. name, mailing address & phone number), as well as service information from your quote letter (civic address or legal land location). FortisAlberta will then install the meter, and your new service line will be energized.
If you have any further questions about the process you should call FortisAlberta Customer Service at 310-WIRE (9473).