# Understanding Energy Deregulation in Alberta

## Understanding energy deregulation in Alberta

Alberta has a deregulated energy market, meaning residents generally have a choice in who supplies their electricity and natural gas, rather than being locked into a single utility.

## Utility vs. retailer: two different roles

The wires and pipes that physically deliver electricity and gas are maintained by your local utility, which isn't something you choose. What you can choose is your energy retailer, the company you pay for the energy itself.

## Regulated Rate Option vs. competitive contracts

If you don't actively choose a retailer, you're typically defaulted to the Regulated Rate Option, a variable rate that can fluctuate. Competitive retailers offer fixed-rate or variable contracts with different terms.

## Why this matters for your bill

It's worth periodically comparing what you're paying against current market offers rather than assuming your rate is automatically competitive.

## How to actually compare offers

Look at more than the headline rate: contract length, cancellation fees, and whether the rate is fixed or variable.

## Where to go from here

Your most recent bill shows your current retailer and rate structure. BigWiFi's Big Energy team can walk Alberta residents through current options directly.