Everything you need to know about switching energy providers in Alberta.
Switching & Service
Will my power go out when I switch?
No. Switching energy retailers has zero effect on your service. Electricity and natural gas are delivered through the same wires and pipes by your local utility company (ATCO Electric, EPCOR, ENMAX, FortisAlberta, ATCO Gas, etc.) regardless of which retailer you choose. By law, the utility cannot provide different service levels based on your retailer. You won't notice any change except a better price.
How long does switching take?
The online enrollment form takes about 4 minutes. After you submit, we handle everything with your utility company — you don't need to call your current provider. The switch typically takes effect on your next meter reading date.
Do I need to cancel with my current provider?
No. When you enroll with Bright Fire, we coordinate the switch with your distributor. Your previous retailer is notified automatically. If you're currently on the Regulated Rate Option (RRO), the transition is seamless.
What happens if my retailer goes out of business?
By Alberta regulation, if an energy retailer ceases operations, all customers are automatically returned to the Regulated Rate Option (RRO) through their local utility. Your service is never interrupted.
Rates & Plans
Should I choose fixed or variable?
Fixed rates lock in your price for 1–5 years. Your rate stays the same regardless of what happens in the market — great if you want predictable bills.
Variable rates follow the Alberta wholesale market plus a small markup (0.85¢/kWh for electricity, $0.85/GJ for gas). You benefit when prices drop but pay more during spikes.
Most families choose fixed for peace of mind. Either way, there are no cancellation fees on our electricity plans. Note: fixed natural gas contracts carry a $250 early exit fee; variable natural gas does not.
Are there really no cancellation fees?
Yes — all our electricity plans (fixed and variable) come with zero cancellation fees. You can leave anytime without penalty. Variable natural gas also has no exit fee. Fixed natural gas contracts carry a $250 early exit fee. There are no sign-up fees and no deposit required on approved credit.
What is the admin fee?
All plans include a $9.99/month admin fee per site. This is standard across Alberta energy retailers and covers account management and billing services. There are no other hidden fees.
What if I have solar panels?
Our SMART Solar program pays you 35¢/kWh for excess solar production — any day, any season, all year long. Credits appear automatically on your bill. We support all Small Micro-Generator (MG) setups as defined under Alberta's Electric Utilities Act.
Billing & Payments
What payment options do you offer?
Pre-authorized debit from a checking account is our preferred payment method. We also accept credit card payments.
Can I change my payment due date?
Payment due dates are based on when your meter is read by your distribution company. Bills are produced with a payment date seven days after the billing date. If you need a temporary change, our customer care team is happy to help — just contact us before the payment is processed.
Safety & Security
Who do I call during a power outage or gas emergency?
Call your local utility company for emergencies — they handle delivery and safety regardless of your retailer:
Your utility's number is also on your current bill.
Is my personal information secure?
Yes. Each account is secured by a unique User ID and password. All systems and data are stored in a secure, fully redundant data centre that is monitored 24/7. We take the security and confidentiality of your personal information seriously.