Alberta Electricity Rates
Fixed Electricity Rates
Consumers who choose a fixed electricity rate will pay the same price per kilowatt hour (kWh) regardless of what the actual market price is. This is a highly-attractive option for people who value price certainty. However, as of 2026 our variable electricity rate has been lower than every fixed rate available in Alberta.
Regulated Energy Rates in Alberta
In each area there is a designated provider for electricity and they are called the regulated provider. Many people also refer to them as the default provider. This is the most expensive electricity rate in Alberta and it’s called the Rate of Last Resort. It means that if you do not choose a provider for electricity at your residence you will start getting billed by the default provider. The rates the default provider charges are determined by the market prices and government regulators. Unfortunately, a large part of Alberta is serviced by a major corporation that has their head office overseas. Customer care complaints are very common with the default electricity providers. Additionally, the default provider for electricity is not always able to provide natural gas, so customers are forced to deal with two providers for their energy services.
Variable Rates
A variable electricity rate means it is based on the monthly market price of electricity (which fluctuates). The variable electricity prices that competitive rate retailers charge are a combination of the market price of electricity plus a “transaction fee”. The transaction fee is the retailer’s margin. The Regional Energy variable rate has been averaging less than 6¢/kWh. Customers can convert to a fixed rate at any time!