Alberta Energy Providers Compared — Rates, Contracts & What to Look For (2026)

Choosing an electricity or natural gas provider in Alberta doesn't have to be complicated. Since deregulation in 2001, Albertans have been free to choose their energy retailer — but with dozens of options, it's hard to know who actually offers the best deal.

This guide compares what matters: rates, contract terms, fees, and what the fine print actually says. We've done the homework so you don't have to.

How Alberta's Energy Market Works

Alberta is one of the few provinces where you can choose your electricity and natural gas retailer. Here's the key distinction:

  • Regulated Rate Option (RRO) — Your default utility (ENMAX, EPCOR, ATCO) charges a rate set monthly by the Alberta Utilities Commission. No contract, but the rate fluctuates and is typically higher than competitive offers.
  • Competitive Retailers — Companies like Get Energy offer fixed or variable rates that are often lower than the RRO. You choose your plan, and your utility still handles delivery — nothing changes except your rate.
Important: No matter which retailer you choose, your power lines, gas pipes, and meter are still managed by your local utility. Switching retailers only changes who you pay for the energy itself — delivery and infrastructure stay the same.

What to Compare When Choosing a Provider

💰 Rate per kWh or GJ

The most important number. Compare the actual energy rate — not the total bill estimate, which includes delivery charges you'll pay regardless of your retailer.

📋 Contract Terms

Some providers lock you into 3-5 year contracts with early termination fees. Others offer month-to-month or short-term plans with no cancellation penalties.

💸 Hidden Fees

Watch for admin fees, exit fees, security deposits, and "rate riders." A low rate with a $14.95/month admin fee isn't as cheap as it looks.

🏠 Local Presence

Does the company actually operate in Alberta, or are they a national reseller? Local providers tend to offer better support and understand the Alberta market.

Alberta Energy Provider Comparison (July 2026)

Factor Get Energy Typical Large Retailer RRO (Default Utility)
1-Year Fixed Electricity 6.97¢/kWh 7.50–9.00¢/kWh Varies monthly
Variable Electricity Market + 0.70¢/kWh Market + 1.00–2.00¢ RRO rate (higher)
Fixed Natural Gas $3.77/GJ $4.00–5.50/GJ Varies monthly
Contract Length 1, 2, or 3-year options Often 3-5 years No contract
Cancellation Fee None $50–$500+ N/A
Admin Fee $9.97/month $9.95–$14.95/month Included in bill
Alberta-Based Yes (Fort McMurray) Varies Yes
Solar Option Yes (Solar Club) Rarely No

Rates shown are as of July 2026. Competitor ranges are approximate and based on publicly available pricing. Get Energy rates are current and verified.

Fixed vs. Variable — Which Is Right for You?

This is the biggest decision most Albertans face when choosing a plan:

  • Fixed rate — Your rate per kWh or GJ stays the same for the entire term. Predictable bills. Best if you want budget certainty.
  • Variable rate — Your rate follows the wholesale market. It can be lower than fixed in some months but higher in others. Best if you're comfortable with some fluctuation and want to take advantage of market dips.
Right now: Get Energy's 30-day average variable electricity rate is 3.17¢/kWh (as of June 29, 2026) — well below the 1-year fixed rate of 6.97¢/kWh. But variable rates change daily. See our detailed fixed vs. variable comparison →

Questions to Ask Any Provider

Before signing up with any Alberta energy retailer, ask these five questions:

  1. "What's the all-in rate?" — Make sure you're comparing the energy rate plus any admin fees or riders.
  2. "Is there a cancellation fee?" — If yes, how much and under what conditions?
  3. "What happens when my contract ends?" — Do you auto-renew at a higher rate, or revert to the RRO?
  4. "Do you offer both electricity and gas?" — Bundling with one provider simplifies billing.
  5. "Where are you based?" — A local Alberta company is more likely to understand your needs and provide responsive support.

Why Albertans Choose Get Energy

Get Energy is a locally owned Alberta energy retailer based in Fort McMurray. Here's what makes us different:

  • Transparent pricing — Our rates are posted publicly. No bait-and-switch, no hidden escalation clauses.
  • No cancellation fees — Switch away anytime. We believe you should stay because you want to, not because you're locked in.
  • Electricity, gas, internet, and solar — One company for all your home services.
  • 5-minute online sign-up — No phone calls, no paperwork, no waiting.
  • Community-first — We actively support local organizations across Alberta.

Ready to Compare Your Current Rate?

Most Albertans are paying more than they need to. Check your last bill, compare it to our rates, and decide for yourself.

See Our Current Rates & Sign Up →