A fixed rate holds the price per unit steady, while floating follows market prices. Both bills can change with your usage, fees and delivery charges.
Choosing a fixed or floating rate in Alberta
Compare each plan’s full cost using your own bills. Think about whether you could pay more if prices rose. A fixed energy rate does not fix your whole monthly bill.
See the default electricity rates and what changes on 1 January 2027.
A GJ, or gigajoule, measures the energy in the gas you use. The EPCOR Energy Alberta key fact applies to electricity in Edmonton, not gas.
What a fixed energy rate sets
A fixed plan sets your price per kWh or GJ for the agreed term. Your usage and other charges can still change. Check the fees and end date before you sign.
The UCA’s rate-choice guide explains fixed and floating prices. A fixed price helps you budget; a floating price follows the market.
For example, 500 kWh at a fixed 10¢/kWh gives a $50 energy charge. At 800 kWh, the same rate gives $80. Both leave out all other charges.
The rate stayed the same, but using more power raised the bill.
How a floating energy rate changes
A floating rate changes with the market price each month. The UCA describes it as a wholesale price plus a fee. Ask how the company adds that fee.
Floating and variable mean the same rate type. Neither promises a lower price.
Compare costs with both higher and lower prices. Check what a rise would cost during your home’s highest-use months. Past prices can explain past bills, but cannot tell you next winter’s cost.
How default electricity and gas rates differ
Default gas prices change each month. The electricity Rate of Last Resort has its own set term. The table shows that rule alongside fixed and floating plans.
The gas plan’s official name is Default Rate Tariff. Check the fuel, service area and dates before comparing it with another plan. Also check when discounts end and whether the contract allows price changes.
| Rate type | What is set | What can change | Term | Who sells it |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Energy price per unit | Usage, delivery charges and other fees | Your agreed term | Competing energy companies |
| Floating | The price rules in your contract | Energy price, usage and other charges | Your contract sets the term and exit rules | Competing energy companies |
| Default | Electricity: The default rate is fixed for two years starting 1 January 2025; changes between terms cannot normally exceed 10 per cent. (from 1 January 2025) [source] | Gas prices change each month. Usage and other charges can change. | Electricity follows its set term; gas prices reset each month | The default company for your service area |
Checks before choosing a plan
Read your current contract before you choose a new plan. Find the end date, exit fees and any notice rules. Compare full costs using the same usage for your home.
- Work out how much a price rise could add to your bill.
- Allow for a move, a new electric car or changes in who lives at home.
- Decide how often you want to review your plan.
- Check what happens when the term or a discount ends.
Our guide to comparing Alberta electricity costs explains how to add rates and fees.
What an energy plan comparison should show
Use the same usage and dates for each plan. Add all fees and read the full terms. Ask which prices can change.
Keep known prices separate from guesses about future prices. If a floating plan costs less only when prices fall, try a price rise too. When costs are close, choose the plan that fits your budget and time.
Before winter 2026–27: decide using your own bills
Find the GJ used on your past winter bills. Use those monthly amounts to compare each plan, with all fees included. More gas use can raise your bill even with a fixed price.
Follow how to read your ATCO gas bill to find the right lines. If your total has jumped, start with the high-bill checks.
BillRobin is an Alberta service. We compare every plan we can confirm for your home.
We show plans in order of estimated cost. You decide whether to change plans.
We never switch your plan, phone you or ask for banking details.
Questions people ask
Does a fixed gas rate mean a fixed bill?
No. A fixed rate holds the energy price steady for the term. Your usage, delivery charges and other fees can still change your bill.
Is floating gas always cheaper in Alberta?
No. A floating price can rise or fall. Compare all fees and think about whether you could pay more during winter.
Should I choose a gas plan before winter?
Review your plan before your heating use rises. Compare costs using your past winter GJ and each plan’s fees. Check your current end date and exit rules before you sign.
Are default electricity and gas rates the same kind of plan?
Default gas prices change each month. Electricity’s Rate of Last Resort has a set term. Compare the right fuel and dates.
Sources
Written by the BillRobin team. Updated .
Show the 4 sources
https://billrobin.com/ca/en/alberta/energy/fixed-vs-floating?utm_medium=share&utm_source=page
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