Alberta electricity overview

The Electric Utilities Act established a competitive market for electricity generation and created the Power Pool of Alberta, the market for all electricity bought and sold in Alberta.

Alberta’s electricity transmission and distribution systems remain fully regulated; rates for these services are set through regulation.

Retail sales of electricity in the province are partly deregulated. Consumers can shop for electricity to choose a retail electricity provider that best meets their needs.

All retailers intending to operate in Alberta are requested to complete this form (PDF, 221 KB) before any of the functions referred to in section 111 of the Act are carried out. Compliance with this request for information is mandatory. Fax the form to the Retail and Distribution Branch, Alberta Energy, at 780-427-8065. For further information, call the Electricity and Sustainable Energy Division at 780-422-5433.

A number of arms-length agencies oversee Alberta’s electricity system and receive their powers through the Electric Utilities Act. These include the Alberta Electric System Operator, Alberta Utilities Commission, Market Surveillance Administrator, Balancing Pool, and Utilities Consumer Advocate.

Work is underway to create a reliable and affordable electricity system that reduces harmful pollution to improve the health of Albertans and the environment and ensures a positive investment climate to keep Alberta competitive. Learn more about Powering Alberta’s Future.