Transferring utilities when moving in Alberta can be both simple and complicated. Although it’s a simple task (usually, you will only need to call your energy provider), it can get lost amid all the typical folding, packing and cleaning processes of moving. It’s not rare to see residents thinking about moving the electricity and natural gas plans at the last minute, which can result in some hiccups during an already stressful time.
In most cases, consumers in Alberta will only need a bit of information in order to transfer energy services from one home to another. Still, the process can change slightly according to the energy retailer you’re signed with. That’s why it’s helpful to know when and how you should contact your current energy retailer before moving.
First of all, if you intend to transfer your power supplier and natural gas provider to the new home, be prepared to offer your utility provider some necessary information, whether online or by phone, including:
- Move-in and move-out dates
- The address of the new home
- Contact information during the moving process
When moving in Alberta, residents should also keep track of the specific conditions set by energy providers. In most cases, you won’t have to pay for the transfer, but only if you let them know about it on time. Below you’ll find some of the moving-related requirements from some of the major energy retailers in Alberta.
ATCO vs. Direct Energy vs. ENMAX vs. Encor by EPCOR vs. Just Energy
How much does it cost to transfer utilities? Are there any transfer fees? What do I do if my energy provider doesn’t service my new address?
There is a world of questions related to transferring utilities in Alberta, and some of them have different answers depending on your energy retailer. Still, it is almost safe to say that, in most cases, you won’t have to pay for transfer fees. Also, if your energy provider doesn’t service your new home, most retailers won’t charge you a cancellation fee or a similar charge.
ATCO Energy: According to ATCO Energy, if you’re moving within Alberta, their services will move with you. In other words, you won’t have to cancel your current ATCO plan. Still, you must call its customer service in advance and let them know about the new address and the moving date.
Direct Energy: As posted on its website, Direct Energy Home Services provides customers with both online and phone lines for such issues. According to the company, the ideal time to notify your retailer about your move is approximately three to four weeks in advance.
ENMAX: According to ENMAX, transferring is free. The energy provider also suggests consumers should let them know about the move-out and move-in dates one month before. ENMAX serves most regions in Alberta except for Medicine Hat, local gas co-ops and some rural areas.
Encor by EPCOR: Encor by EPCOR offers its customers the option of transferring their electricity and natural gas plans without fees. Consumers need to notify the company at least three days in advance. In case you’re not sure about the new address, Encor allows you to put your energy plan on hold for up to 90 days. There are some areas in the province that aren’t served by the company, including Medicine Hat, which would require you to find new electricity and natural gas retailers.
Just Energy: As stated on its website, Just Energy allows you to transfer your current plan to a new address, and, in most cases, there are no fees related to the service. To avoid charges, customers should call Just Energy with some weeks in advance.
Switch energy providers in Alberta
Alberta electricity rates: Moving within Alberta can be an opportunity for you to switch your power supplier and pay less than the average electricity bill. Energy providers in Alberta frequently create plans, rewards programs, promotional rates and discounts that help consumers offset their energy costs. That way, you can take advantage of the competitive energy market and find you the best utility option in the province.
Alberta natural gas rates: If you’re currently unsatisfied about the Alberta natural gas company that serves your home, moving out is definitely a chance for you to find other Alberta natural gas providers and reduce your energy bills.
Setting up utilities in Calgary: If you’re looking for the cheapest natural gas and electricity rates in Calgary, EnergyRates.ca has a full guide on how to compare electricity and natural gas providers in the city.
Hooking up utilities in Edmonton: For utilities in Edmonton, residents can find helpful information regarding natural gas providers, power suppliers and utility rates at EnergyRates.ca.
Regulated vs. deregulated utilities: Some companies in Alberta own both regulated and deregulated utilities, so it’s important that you make sure which option is cheaper for you, not only at the time of purchase but also in the long run.
Alberta residents should pay attention to the time each retailer takes to set up utilities in the province. According to UCA Helps, retailers of the rate of last resort (ROLT) can set up an account for you right away. However, competitive energy providers can take between 10 and 90 days to set up electricity and natural gas at your home or commercial facility.
Utility cost comparison
In case you want to enjoy the moving to compare energy rates and find the best energy provider in Alberta, EnergyRates.ca is here to help you. The website is a free, unbiased price-comparison tool for you to compare electricity and natural gas rates in Edmonton, Calgary or any other municipality in Alberta.
At EnergyRates.ca, you can fill in your postal code to compare natural gas retailers and electricity suppliers, as well as their plans and rates, based on your consumption, whether you’re looking for residential, farm, industrial, business or commercial energy rates.
Some customers, such as commercial, business and industrial energy consumers, can even get a free custom energy quote based on their energy usage.
