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What is the difference between Direct Energy and Direct Energy Regulated Services?

Updated on March 29, 2024
2-minute read

What is the difference between Direct Energy and Direct Energy Regulated Services?

Updated on March 29, 2024
2-minute read

In Alberta, you can choose between a regulated or competitive provider to energize your home or business. 

Direct Energy Regulated Services is a regulated retailer. That means that our services are “regulated” by a government-body called the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC). The AUC approves the plans for setting our gas and electricity rates. Every month, they ensure that our rates reflect market conditions and meet the requirements of those price-setting plans.  

Meanwhile, Direct Energy is a competitive retailer. The AUC doesn’t regulate it. That means we can offer fixed-rate contracts for natural gas and electricity. Those rates don’t change during the contract term, so you’ll pay the same rate regardless of market conditions. 

Both energy solutions provide natural gas and electricity to power your home or business, but they are different when it comes to signing up, contracts and rates. 

We’ve put together a simple breakdown to help you better understand the difference between Direct Energy and Direct Energy Regulated Services. 

Young girl taking muffins out of the oven with her dad looking on.
Young girl taking muffins out of the oven with her dad looking on.
Young girl taking muffins out of the oven with her dad looking on.

Direct Energy

  • As a competitive retailer, we offer stable fixed-rate plans for various contract lengths. For example, you can sign up for one, three or five years at the same fixed rate. Signing up for a fixed rate can help you avoid market volatility. Some people prefer this option because it ensures stability for as long as they need it.
  • With Direct Energy, you will benefit from a combined bill, bundled rates, no exit fees, green energy options, and other promotions.
  • There are no service territory restrictions. You can sign up with us almost anywhere in Alberta.  

Direct Energy Regulated Services

  • As a regulated service provider, our monthly rates are based on market prices and reviewed by the AUC to ensure they are fair and accurate. 
  • To make things easy for you, we don’t have sign-up or exit fees, and you don't have to sign a contract with us when you register.
  • We also offer easy setup for new customers. In most cases, we can turn on your electricity or natural gas as soon as you need it.
  • You’ll benefit from lower rates when the market rates are lower but can pay more when they’re not.

Have questions? Please reach out to us! We are happy to help.

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