Default Retailer Rate
(Commercial Customers Only)
1. How will I know what the Default Retailer Rate will be?
On April 1 2010, ENMAX Energy changed the default rate from a predominantly power pool pricing structure to a balance between fixed and variable costs, providing enhanced cost stability for the customer. The change is a better reflection of what it costs to serve default rate customers. We currently link to the “Canadian domestic gas price report” website and our customers can monitor current and historical AECO “C” Daily Index. We've also posted the Default Retailer Rate Schedule on our website to show how the Default Retailer Rate is calculated.
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2. How does the Default Retailer Rate work?
The new rate has:
- A fixed component based on the customer’s peak demand (kVA) during the billing period, determined as the maximum consumption in any hour for the current billing period (this is known in the calculation as FREC); and
- A variable component based on the customer’s total energy consumption (kWh), determined as the customer’s total consumption in the billing period multiplied by a set heat rate times the average of the daily gas index price in the billing period (this is known as VREC).
Both FREC and VREC charges will be shown separately on the customer's bill.
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3. How will this affect my bill?
As these changes just impact the energy charges, only a portion of the bill is impacted. There should be no significant change on customer’s monthly bill other than customers will notice a relatively more stable cost than the previous rate.
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4. Are there alternatives to the Default Rate?
Yes, Alberta consumers can contact a licensed competitive retailer for a variety of retail products.
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5. Will I be penalized if I go off the Default Retailer Rate?
Customers can leave the Default Retailer Rate with three business days notice. No exit fee will be charged.
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6. If I have service outside the ENMAX territory, can I sign up for the Default Retailer Rate?
Unfortunately no. The Default Retailer Rate is exclusive to our customers in Calgary, Red Deer, Crowsnest Pass, Cardston, Fort Macleod and Ponoka distribution areas. However, eligible customers can sign up for ENMAX Energy's Flex or Fixed Plans.
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7. Where can consumers get more information?
Further information can be obtained from ENMAX at enmax.com and a list of licensed retailers is available from the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA).
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