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If your energy bill is higher than usual, and you're NOT on Average Billing, it is likely due to one or more of these reasons:
1. Your billing period has changed.
If your bill is higher than usual, check the billing period dates for that cycle. We do our best to provide you with a consistent billing period of about 1-month. But, sometimes, there are delays in receiving consumption information from the distribution company. These delays can result in a longer billing period.
More days in the billing period will show more consumption, increasing your energy, administration, distribution and government charges. Also, if this is a final bill or if there is a missing invoice, the billing period may be longer than usual.
2. Extreme hot or cold weather
Exceptionally cold or hot periods during the year lead to more energy usage. A typical residential customer during January consumes 20 GJ per month. However, extraordinary cold spells coupled with more time spent at home could typically contribute to higher usage than that estimate.
We turn up our furnaces or air conditioning units to stay comfortable! Cold temperatures will have an impact on both electricity and natural gas bills. However, hot temperatures are likely only to impact electricity bills as the furnace doesn't run during these times.
3. Distribution charge increases
When you use more energy, not only will your energy charges increase, but your distributor charges will also increase. This increase is because transmission and distribution charges have a variable component. Therefore, the more energy you use, the higher they will be. For natural gas bills, higher usage will also result in a higher Federal Carbon Tax because the government charges it per GJ.
4. Increased energy consumption
With colder weather, energy use generally increases. Your furnace must burn more natural gas to keep your home at the same temperature as on mild days. Electricity operates the furnace's fan, while electric heat and space heaters will also increase your electricity usage. Shorter days in the winter will also result in using the electric lights longer.
5. Other changes that can increase energy consumption
Other changes in your home environment, like turning up the thermostat, running the AC more regularly, and adding or changing appliances (i.e. hot tub, electric fireplace, air conditioner), can increase consumption. In addition, having house guests or not keeping up with furnace maintenance and filter changes can result in higher energy bills.
You can view our energy-saving tips here.
6. An increase in the price of regulated natural gas or electricity
Even if your usage remains the same, regulated natural gas and electricity prices fluctuate monthly. Fluctuations can happen due to weather, increases or decreases in use, world events and supply and demand factors.
If the commodity price increases while your usage remains constant, it will result in a higher bill. Remember that our regulated rates are reviewed and approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission to ensure they are fair.
- Fair Rates
- No Enrollment Fees
- No Exit Fees
Save with Regulated Natural Gas
Did you know our regulated natural gas rate is 61% lower* than the average fixed rate? The best part is that it's expected to remain low throughout 2024!**
In 2023, our regulated natural gas customers saved over $300*** in energy costs compared to those who signed a fixed-rate contract at the start of the year. But it’s not too late to enjoy savings.
Switch today and take advantage of this low natural gas rate without any enrollment or exit fees. It's a simple and hassle-free process that can help you save money effortlessly.
Find out if we offer energy services in your area.
Why Choose Direct Energy Regulated Services?
- Easy Enrollment
Sign up for service online today with just one click.
- Fair Rates
Rest assured that you’re paying a fair price since the Alberta Utilities Commission approves our rates.
- Easy Payments
You can pay for your services with most major credit cards to earn points with your service.
- Billing Options
Our Average Billing payment option allows you to pay a rolling average monthly amount, spreading your energy costs throughout the year and making it more manageable.
- Access your accounts anytime
Track bills and payments through your Online Account on any device.
Top 5 Most Commonly Asked Questions
Why is my energy bill higher than usual?
How do I transfer my Direct Energy Regulated Services to a new address?
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You can easily transfer your services through your Online Account. Once you log in, you can either click the "Move or Transfer" button below your account overview. Or you can click the menu and select "Move or Transfer Service" under "Manage Services" and follow the steps.
Or you can let us know you are moving by calling us at 1-866-420-3174. If you let us know about your move about one week before you move, we can transfer your account to your new address. Then it's one less thing you must worry about!
Why am I getting a bill from Direct Energy Regulated Services?
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If you haven't selected or are no longer receiving service from a different retailer or supplier for your natural gas or electricity services, Direct Energy Regulated Services automatically becomes your supplier.
We purchase electricity and natural gas on your behalf in the competitive energy marketplace and supply it at a regulated rate that is reviewed and approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC). As your supplier, we are also responsible for billing and customer service.
Where does Direct Energy Regulated Services provide electricity services?
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Direct Energy Regulated Services provides electricity service to Northern Alberta and East-Central Alberta. View the areas in Alberta where Direct Energy Regulated Services provides services. We'd love to serve you!
What is the Regulated Rate Option (RRO) for electricity, and how is it determined?
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The RRO is the per kilowatt hour (kWh) electricity rate available from regulated rate providers, such as Direct Energy Regulated Services. The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) regulates the RRO.
The RRO is calculated according to a price-setting plan. It is reviewed and approved in advance of each month by the AUC. The RRO price reflects monthly, market-based prices, which may increase or decrease month-to-month due to market forces such as supply and demand.
Empowering Albertans
Direct Energy Regulated Services provides regulated natural gas and electricity services to communities across Alberta without any contracts. We're here to provide reliable service to your home or business whenever you need us.
*Based on an average of the lowest advertised 5-year fixed rates from ATCO Energy, EasyMax, Encor, and Direct Energy as of March 22, 2024.
**Based on the natural gas forward curves as of March 22, 2024.
***2023 savings are based on an average of the lowest advertised 5-year fixed rates from ATCO Energy, EasyMax, Encor, and Direct Energy available in January 2023. Past savings are calculated comparing those available rates against Direct Energy Regulated Services’ natural gas rate and average monthly household gas usage.
Customers are free to purchase natural gas services or electricity services from a retailer of their choice. For a list of retailers, visit ucahelps.alberta.ca or call 310-4822 (toll free in Alberta). ©2024 Direct Energy. All rights reserved.