The Truth About Energy Rates: How to Make a Better Choice

Shopping for an energy provider can be confusing.

Between free months, gift cards, introductory rates, and limited-time offers, it’s often difficult to see who actually has the best gas and electricity rates in Alberta for your full contract term.

Don’t get fooled by a low advertised price. It’s easy to get locked into a contract because of a cheap introductory rate, only to watch your prices skyrocket for the remaining months of the term.

Before making a decision, take a few minutes to understand your current electricity and natural gas rates, review your contract renewal dates, and compare more than just promotional offers. Ask questions like:

• What happens when the promotion ends?
• What rate will I pay long-term?
• Are there contract commitments or fees?
• Is pricing transparent and easy to understand?

Before you sign anything, take a couple of minutes to look past the flashy promo headline. You want to understand your current electricity rates and natural gas rates so you can see exactly what happens when the honeymoon phase ends.

Make sure you ask:

• What’s the real rate long-term? (Not just the 3-month teaser).
• What happens if I want out? (Watch for contract traps or exit fees).
• What else am I paying for? (Ensure their admin and delivery fees are transparent).

Another factor many Albertans overlook is ownership.

Some energy providers are owned by shareholders, while others operate as cooperatives where members share in the success of the organization. This can affect where profits go and how value is returned to customers.

At ACE, we believe energy should be straightforward. That’s why we focus on transparent pricing, competitive fixed-rate options, member ownership and offering some of the lowest electricity rates and natural gas rates in Alberta. Eligible members may also benefit from Patronage Returns, meaning you get cash back when we succeed.