🔌 Choosing Natural Gas & Electricity Plans in Calgary: What You Need to Know

With Alberta’s deregulated energy market, Calgary residents have the freedom to choose their electricity and natural gas providers. While this flexibility can lead to savings and customization, it can also feel overwhelming if you're not sure where to start. This guide will walk you through how to choose the best energy plan for your needs.

🏡 Regulated vs. Competitive Retailers: What’s the Difference?

In Calgary, you have two main types of energy providers:

✅ Regulated Rate Providers (RRO)

• Prices fluctuate monthly based on the market.

• Provided by companies like ENMAX for electricity and Direct Energy Regulated Services for gas.

• Good for short-term or low-commitment users.

• No contract required.

✅ Competitive Retailers

• Offer fixed, floating, or bundled rates.

• Often include incentives, green energy options, or better customer service.

• Require contracts (usually 1–5 years).

⚡ Electricity Plan Types

🔹 Fixed Rate

• Pay the same price per kWh for the term of your contract.

• Ideal if you want predictability and budget stability.

• Good during times of market volatility.

🔹 Floating/Variable Rate

• Tied to the Alberta Power Pool rate, which changes monthly.

• Can be cheaper when market rates are low — but riskier when rates spike.

🔥 Natural Gas Plan Types

Similar to electricity, gas plans come in:

• Fixed Rates: Consistent cost per GJ (Gigajoule), great for budgeting.

• Floating Rates: Based on market rates, which can be lower — but volatile.

👉 Natural gas prices in Alberta can spike during cold winters, so fixed-rate plans are popular during the heating season.

💡 Things to Consider Before Choosing

1. Your Energy Usage

• Large households or electric-heated homes may benefit more from fixed plans.

• Seasonal usage fluctuations (e.g., AC in summer, furnace in winter) matter.

2. Contract Terms

• Look for cancellation fees, term lengths, and automatic renewals.

• Choose flexibility if you're planning to move.

3. Green Energy Options

• Some retailers offer renewable electricity plans (solar or wind offset).

• Great for eco-conscious households.

4. Customer Reviews & Service

• Check online reviews for billing transparency, customer service, and support.

5. Bundled Offers

• Some providers offer discounted electricity + gas bundles or include perks like smart thermostats or loyalty programs.

🏷 Common Providers in Calgary

📊 Average Energy Costs in Calgary (2025)

• Electricity: ~18–21¢/kWh (including transmission and admin fees)

• Natural Gas: ~$5.50–$7.00/GJ (plus fixed monthly fees)

Your total monthly bill varies based on usage, plan type, and provider fees.

📍 How to Compare Plans

Use Alberta’s official energy comparison tool:

🔗 UCA Helps

This free government tool lets you:

• Compare electricity and gas plans

• View provider terms and rates

• Understand additional charges and contract details

✅ Final Tips

• Read the fine print on cancellation and admin fees.

• Choose fixed rates if you prefer stable bills.

• Consider floating rates only if you're OK with market fluctuation risks.

• Review your plan every 12–24 months to ensure you're still getting a good deal.

Choosing the right natural gas and electricity plan in Calgary isn’t one-size-fits-all. By understanding your household’s energy usage, comfort with risk, and values (like supporting renewable energy), you can find a plan that works for your lifestyle and budget.