Some Albertans are Unknowingly Paying More for Energy Than Their Neighbours
Albertans on the Regulated Rate Option (RRO) are expected to see a steep spike in their energy bill in the coming months.
If you're an ATCOenergy customer, then you know you’re not on the RRO. So, feel free to keep your A/C running and your speakers blasting without any worry this summer.
We’re helping Albertans stay informed about their energy options. Read the media release below to learn how to avoid paying more than you need for electricity by getting off the RRO.
CALGARY, June 29, 2023 - The energy required to turn on a light bulb in one Alberta home is the same as the next - so why are hundreds of thousands of Albertans paying so much more than their neighbours?
The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) is expected to announce a rate as high as 28¢/kWh for July’s Regulated Rate Option (RRO), a vast increase over recent months.
Between January and March of 2023, an electricity rate cap on the RRO helped to stabilize monthly utility bills in the winter months, but many Albertans didn’t realize that this wasn’t a rebate - it was a deferral. Now in addition to paying back the deferred amount, RRO customers are paying twice as much for electricity than rates available on retail energy plans.
Across Alberta, there are several options Albertans can choose when it comes to their electricity provider. Many Albertans don’t realize they’re on the default option for their electricity. The RRO is set monthly, and the rate is approved by the AUC, meaning many Albertans will be paying more for the same service as their neighbours who have actively chosen a competitive retailer.
Matt Coad, Director of Strategy at ATCOenergy & Rümi says, “In Alberta, customers do have some control over their energy costs, but not if they’re on the RRO. Understanding their options will give Albertans an opportunity to control their energy bills and they can have the confidence knowing they are paying a competitive rate for their electricity needs.”
With high inflation continuing to put pressure on Albertans, many people are looking for ways to save money and understand the options available to them when it comes to energy costs. Repaying previously deferred energy costs on top of record high monthly rates as part of the RRO program will put many Albertans at an unnecessary disadvantage.
Coad continues, “The regulated rate isn’t broadly discussed with most Albertans, leaving many consumers confused about why they are paying so much for their electricity. At the end of the day, 100 kilowatts is 100 kilowatts. Why would you want to pay twice as much for the same product? With a retailer, you can choose what works for you.”
During 2022, RRO prices in the Edmonton region fluctuated between 10.702 cents/kWh and 24.208 cents/kWh, and between 9.971 cents/kWh and 22.133 cents/kWh in Calgary.
Many Albertans aren’t aware that they have choices when it comes to their energy rates. This means that Albertans can select their retailer and choose from a variety of rates and plans.
Coad adds, “Guaranteed energy rates, sometimes called fixed rates, are a great way to gain control over your energy bill. When the rate stays the same, the change in cost is more dependent on how much energy households are consuming, versus what the market is doing. Just because something is labelled as regulated, it doesn’t mean it’s the best rate available. At the end of the day, we want Albertans to feel informed and empowered to make the best choice for their home.”
About ATCOenergy
In 2016, ATCOenergy recognized the need for a different kind of energy company in Alberta’s deregulated energy market, giving customers the freedom to choose a plan that works for them, their home or business. Today, ATCOenergy is one of the leading competitive energy retailers in the province, offering various electricity and natural gas plans, flexible payment options and local support to both residential and business customers.
Together with its sister brands, Rümi and Blue Flame Kitchen, ATCOenergy is able to deliver on home happiness with solutions that span everything from energy for your home, to delicious meals and home maintenance services. More information can be found at www.ATCOenergy.com.
