Edmonton

1. Electricity

Providers:

• EPCOR: The primary electricity provider in Edmonton. EPCOR is a municipally owned utility company that supplies electricity, water, and wastewater services.
• Other Retailers: You can also choose from other electricity retailers such as Encor by EPCOR, Direct Energy, ATCO Energy, and Just Energy. Alberta has a deregulated electricity market, so you can shop around for competitive rates.

Costs:

• Electricity Rates: Rates vary depending on whether you choose a regulated rate option (RRO) or a fixed-rate plan.
  • RRO: Rates fluctuate monthly based on market conditions.
  • Fixed-Rate Plans: Typically range from 6 to 10 cents per kWh.
• Monthly Costs: For an average household, electricity bills range from $80 to $150 per month, depending on usage and the size of your home.

How to Set Up:

1. Contact a Provider: If you’re renting or buying a home, contact EPCOR or another retailer to set up your account. You’ll need:
   • Proof of identity (e.g., government-issued ID).
   • Your new address.
   • Move-in date.
2. Deposit: Some providers may require a deposit if you don’t have a credit history in Canada.
3. Billing Options: Choose between paper or electronic billing. Many providers offer equalized payment plans to spread costs evenly throughout the year.

Local Considerations:

• Winter Usage: Electricity usage tends to increase in winter due to heating and lighting needs.
• Energy Efficiency: Consider using energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to reduce costs.

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2. Water and Wastewater

Provider:

• EPCOR: EPCOR is also responsible for water and wastewater services in Edmonton.

Costs:

• Water Rates: Water bills typically include charges for water consumption, wastewater treatment, and drainage.
  • Monthly Costs: Average water bills range from $50 to $100 per month, depending on household size and usage.

How to Set Up:

1. Contact EPCOR: When setting up your electricity account, you can also set up water services with EPCOR.
2. Meter Reading: EPCOR uses water meters to track usage. Ensure your meter is functioning properly when you move in.

Local Considerations:

• Water Quality: Edmonton’s tap water is safe to drink and of high quality. It comes from the North Saskatchewan River and undergoes rigorous treatment.
• Conservation: Be mindful of water usage, especially during summer months when water demand increases.

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3. Natural Gas

Providers:

• ATCO Gas: ATCO is the primary distributor of natural gas in Edmonton.
• Retailers: Similar to electricity, you can choose from various retailers such as Direct Energy, Encor by EPCOR, and Just Energy.

Costs:

• Natural Gas Rates: Rates vary depending on whether you choose a regulated rate or a fixed-rate plan.
  • Regulated Rate: Fluctuates monthly based on market prices.
  • Fixed-Rate Plans: Typically range from $4 to $6 per gigajoule (GJ).
• Monthly Costs: Average natural gas bills range from $50 to $200 per month, with higher costs in winter due to heating.

How to Set Up:

1. Contact a Retailer: Choose a retailer and provide your address, move-in date, and identification.
2. Deposit: A deposit may be required if you’re new to Canada or have no credit history.

Local Considerations:

• Winter Heating: Edmonton winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C. Ensure your home’s heating system is in good condition.
• Energy Efficiency: Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat to save on heating costs.

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4. Waste Management

Provider:

• City of Edmonton: The city manages waste collection, including garbage, recycling, and organic waste (composting).

Costs:

• Monthly Fees: Waste management fees are included in your property taxes or utility bill. For renters, these costs are often included in your rent.
  • Typical costs range from $40 to $50 per month.

Services:

• Garbage Collection: Weekly or bi-weekly collection of black garbage bins.
• Recycling: Blue bins are provided for recyclable materials such as paper, plastics, and metals.
• Organic Waste: Green bins are used for food scraps and yard waste.

How to Set Up:

• Automatic Enrollment: Waste collection services are automatically provided when you move into a property. Contact the City of Edmonton if you need additional bins or have questions.

Local Considerations:

• Sorting Waste: Edmonton has a strong focus on waste diversion. Familiarize yourself with the city’s waste sorting guidelines to avoid fines.
• Eco Stations: Use Eco Stations for hazardous waste, electronics, and large items.

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5. Internet and Cable

Providers:

• Telus: Offers high-speed internet, TV, and phone services.
• Shaw Communications: Another major provider with competitive internet and cable packages.
• Other Options: Bell, Rogers, and smaller providers like TekSavvy and Distributel.

Costs:

• Internet Plans: Prices range from $50 to $120 per month, depending on speed and data limits.
  • Basic plans: 50 Mbps for $50–$70/month.
  • High-speed plans: 300+ Mbps for $80–$120/month.
• Cable TV: Add-on packages for TV typically cost an additional $20 to $50 per month.

How to Set Up:

1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans online or call providers directly.
2. Installation: Schedule an installation appointment. Some providers offer self-installation kits.
3. Bundling: Many providers offer discounts if you bundle internet, TV, and phone services.

Local Considerations:

• Fiber Optic Internet: Telus and Shaw offer fiber optic internet in many areas, which provides faster speeds.
• Mobile Data: If you’re a light internet user, consider relying on mobile data plans instead of home internet.

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Tips for Newcomers to Edmonton:

1. Compare Plans: Use websites like energyrates.ca to compare electricity and gas rates.
2. Budget for Winter: Utility costs can spike in winter due to heating needs. Plan your budget accordingly.
3. Set Up Early: Contact utility providers at least 1–2 weeks before your move-in date to ensure services are active when you arrive.
4. Understand Your Lease: If you’re renting, check your lease agreement to see which utilities are included in your rent.
5. Energy Rebates: Look into government programs or rebates for energy-efficient appliances and home upgrades.

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utility services in Edmonton. Let me know if you need further assistance!