Edmonton

1. Electricity Services in Edmonton

Service Provider

• EPCOR: EPCOR is the primary electricity provider in Edmonton. It manages the distribution of electricity and also offers retail services.
• Retailers: While EPCOR handles distribution, you can choose from several electricity retailers for your billing. Some popular options include:
  • Direct Energy
  • ENMAX
  • ATCO Energy
  • Just Energy

Setting Up Electricity

• To set up electricity service, you can contact EPCOR or your chosen retailer directly. You’ll need:
  • Proof of identity (e.g., government-issued ID)
  • Address of the property
  • Move-in date
• Most providers allow you to set up accounts online or over the phone.

Costs and Billing

• Electricity costs in Edmonton are divided into:
  • Energy charges: Based on consumption (measured in kilowatt-hours, kWh).
  • Delivery charges: Fixed fees for maintaining the grid and infrastructure.
  • Regulated Rate Option (RRO): If you don’t choose a retailer, you’ll be charged the RRO, which fluctuates monthly.
• Average monthly electricity bills range from $80 to $150, depending on usage.
• Billing is typically monthly, and you can pay online, via pre-authorized debit, or at your bank.

Tips for Newcomers

• Compare rates from different retailers using the UCA (Utilities Consumer Advocate) website to find the best plan.
• Consider fixed-rate plans to avoid fluctuating costs.

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2. Water and Wastewater Services

Service Provider

• EPCOR: EPCOR also manages water and wastewater services in Edmonton. They handle water treatment, distribution, and sewage management.

Setting Up Water Services

• When you move into a new property, contact EPCOR to set up your water account. You’ll need:
  • Proof of identity
  • Address of the property
  • Move-in date
• You can set up your account online or by phone.

Costs and Billing

• Water bills include:
  • Consumption charges: Based on the amount of water used (measured in cubic meters).
  • Fixed service charges: For infrastructure maintenance.
• Average monthly water bills range from $50 to $100, depending on household size and usage.
• Billing is monthly and can be paid online, via pre-authorized debit, or at your bank.

Tips for Newcomers

• Monitor your water usage to avoid high bills. EPCOR provides tools to track consumption.
• Fix leaks promptly, as they can significantly increase your bill.

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3. Waste Management Services

Service Provider

• The City of Edmonton manages waste collection and recycling services.

Services Offered

• Garbage Collection: Weekly or bi-weekly collection of household waste.
• Recycling: Blue bag program for recyclables like paper, plastics, and metals.
• Compost: Green cart program for organic waste (food scraps, yard waste).
• Eco Stations: Drop-off locations for hazardous waste, electronics, and large items.

Costs and Billing

• Waste management fees are included in your monthly EPCOR utility bill. The average cost is around $50 per month.

Tips for Newcomers

• Familiarize yourself with the City of Edmonton Waste Collection Calendar to know your pickup days.
• Use the WasteWise app to determine how to dispose of specific items.

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4. Internet and Telecommunications

Service Providers

Edmonton has several internet and telecommunications providers offering a range of plans:

• Telus: Offers fiber-optic internet, TV, and phone services.
• Shaw Communications: Provides cable internet, TV, and phone services.
• Rogers: Offers internet and mobile services.
• Bell: Provides internet, TV, and phone services.
• Smaller Providers: Companies like TekSavvy and Distributel offer competitive pricing.

Setting Up Internet

• Contact your chosen provider to set up service. You’ll need:
  • Proof of identity
  • Address of the property
  • Move-in date
• Installation may require a technician visit, which is often scheduled within a few days.

Costs and Billing

• Internet costs vary based on speed and data limits:
  • Basic plans: $50 to $70 per month (suitable for light usage).
  • High-speed plans: $80 to $150 per month (suitable for streaming and gaming).
• Bundled services (internet, TV, and phone) can save money.
• Billing is monthly, with payment options including online, pre-authorized debit, or credit card.

Tips for Newcomers

• Compare plans on websites like WhistleOut or PlanHub to find the best deal.
• Look for promotional offers for new customers.

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5. Government Programs and Subsidies

Alberta Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA)

• The UCA provides resources to help consumers understand their utility options and resolve disputes with providers. Visit their website for tools to compare electricity and natural gas rates.

Utility Payment Assistance

• Alberta Supports: Offers financial assistance for low-income households struggling to pay utility bills.
• EPCOR’s Energy Assistance Program: Provides support for customers facing financial hardship.

Energy Efficiency Programs

• Energy Efficiency Alberta: Offers rebates and incentives for energy-efficient appliances and home upgrades.
• Home Energy Retrofit Accelerator: A City of Edmonton program that provides rebates for energy-efficient home improvements.

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6. Local Considerations and Tips for Newcomers

• Winter Heating Costs: Edmonton’s winters are cold, and heating costs can be significant. Consider energy-efficient upgrades like better insulation or a programmable thermostat to save on heating bills.
• Budget Billing: Many providers, including EPCOR, offer budget billing plans that average your utility costs over the year, making monthly payments predictable.
• Moving Tips: Notify utility providers at least two weeks before moving to ensure a smooth transition of services.
• Emergency Contacts:
  • Power outages: Call EPCOR at 780-412-4500.
  • Water emergencies: Call EPCOR at 780-412-6800.

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities and services in Edmonton. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!