Calgary

1. Utilities Overview in Calgary

Utilities in Calgary typically include electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, waste management, and internet/telecommunications. These services are essential for housing and accommodation, and most are provided by private companies or the city itself.

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2. Electricity and Natural Gas

Electricity and natural gas are deregulated in Alberta, meaning you can choose your provider. The two main types of plans are:

• Regulated Rate Option (RRO): A variable rate set monthly by the Alberta Utilities Commission.
• Competitive Contracts: Fixed or variable rates offered by private retailers.

Major Providers

• ENMAX Energy (default provider in Calgary for electricity and natural gas)
• Direct Energy
• ATCO Energy
• EPCOR
• Just Energy
• Bullfrog Power (green energy options)

Costs

• Electricity: ~8-15 cents per kWh (depending on the plan and market rates)
• Natural Gas: ~3-6 cents per GJ (gigajoule), but this fluctuates seasonally
• Monthly Average for Utilities (Electricity + Gas): CAD $150–$300 for a typical household, depending on usage and home size.

Setup Procedures

1. Choose a Provider: Compare rates and plans on websites like energyrates.ca.
2. Contact the Provider: Provide your address, move-in date, and identification (e.g., government-issued ID).
3. Deposit: Some providers may require a deposit if you have no credit history in Canada.
4. Connection Timeline: Typically 1–3 business days for activation.

Local Considerations

• Calgary winters are cold, so natural gas usage for heating can significantly increase during winter months.
• Consider energy-efficient appliances and insulation to reduce costs.

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3. Water, Sewer, and Waste Management

These services are managed by the City of Calgary.

Water and Sewer

• Provider: City of Calgary
• Costs:
  • Water: ~CAD $1.50–$2.00 per cubic meter
  • Sewer: ~CAD $1.50–$2.00 per cubic meter
  • Fixed monthly service fee: ~CAD $20–$30
  • Average monthly bill: CAD $50–$100 for a typical household.

Waste Management

• Provider: City of Calgary
• Costs:
  • Waste and recycling fee: CAD $25.80/month (as of 2023)
  • Includes black cart (garbage), blue cart (recycling), and green cart (composting).

Setup Procedures

1. Automatic Enrollment: When you set up your electricity account with ENMAX, the City of Calgary automatically registers you for water, sewer, and waste services.
2. Billing: These services are included in your ENMAX bill.

Local Considerations

• Calgary has a strong focus on recycling and composting. Ensure you separate waste into the appropriate bins (black, blue, and green carts).
• Water conservation is encouraged, especially during summer months.

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4. Internet, Cable, and Phone Services

Calgary has several providers offering high-speed internet, cable TV, and phone services. Most companies offer bundled packages for cost savings.

Major Providers

• Shaw Communications
• Telus
• Rogers
• Bell
• TekSavvy (budget-friendly option)
• Xplornet (for rural areas)

Costs

• Internet: CAD $50–$120/month (depending on speed and data limits)
• Cable TV: CAD $25–$100/month (depending on the package)
• Phone Plans: CAD $30–$100/month (depending on data and features)
• Bundled Packages: CAD $100–$200/month for internet, TV, and phone.

Setup Procedures

1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans on websites like whistleout.ca or directly on provider websites.
2. Contact the Provider: Provide your address and preferred installation date.
3. Installation: Most providers require a technician to visit your home for installation. This typically takes 1–2 weeks to schedule.
4. Equipment: Some providers charge a rental fee for modems/routers (CAD $5–$15/month) or allow you to purchase your own.

Local Considerations

• Fiber-optic internet is widely available in Calgary, offering faster speeds.
• Telus and Shaw are the dominant providers, but smaller companies like TekSavvy may offer more affordable options.

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5. Other Services

Home Insurance

While not a utility, home insurance is essential for renters and homeowners in Calgary.

• Cost: CAD $20–$50/month for renters; CAD $80–$150/month for homeowners.
• Providers: TD Insurance, Intact, Aviva, Co-operators, and others.
• Setup: Contact an insurance provider, provide details about your home, and choose a coverage plan.

Home Security

Optional but recommended for added safety.

• Providers: ADT, Vivint, Telus SmartHome Security.
• Cost: CAD $20–$50/month for monitoring services.

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6. Payment and Billing

• Most utility providers offer online billing and automatic payments.
• Bills are typically issued monthly.
• Payment methods include credit/debit cards, bank transfers, or pre-authorized payments.

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7. Tips for Managing Utilities in Calgary

1. Budget for Winter: Heating costs can spike during Calgary’s cold winters, so plan accordingly.
2. Energy Efficiency: Use programmable thermostats, LED lighting, and energy-efficient appliances to reduce costs.
3. Bundle Services: Consider bundling internet, TV, and phone services to save money.
4. Monitor Usage: Many providers offer online tools to track your electricity, gas, and water usage.
5. Compare Rates Annually: Since Alberta’s energy market is deregulated, it’s worth comparing rates and switching providers if you find a better deal.

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8. Emergency and Support Services

• Power Outages: Contact ENMAX at 403-514-6100.
• Gas Leaks: Contact ATCO Gas at 1-800-511-3447.
• Water Issues: Contact the City of Calgary at 311.
• Financial Assistance: If you’re struggling to pay utility bills, programs like the Alberta Supports Contact Centre (1-877-644-9992) or the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) may help.

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By understanding these utilities and services, you’ll be well-prepared to manage your housing needs in Calgary. Let me know if you need further assistance!