Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA)
The Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) is a branch of the Ministry of Affordability and Utilities in the Government of Alberta. Its mission is to support residential, farm, and small business consumers by providing free, unbiased information about Alberta’s electricity and natural gas markets.
Whether you’re trying to lower your utility bills, understand your energy usage, or resolve a dispute with your provider, the UCA is here to help.
What the UCA Offers
- Cost Comparison Tool to compare electricity and natural gas rates
- Help understanding your utility bills and reading meters
- Support with disputes through the UCA’s Mediation Team
- Tips to reduce energy usage and avoid scams
- Educational resources including guides, posters, and games
- Interpreter services in over 240 languages
Contact Information
- Phone: 310-4822 (within Alberta), Outside Alberta, dial 1-888-644-6608
- Email: UC******@****ab.ca
UPCOMING POWER HOUR WEBINARS
Join the UCA at one of our upcoming free Power Hour webinars. These sessions cover various topics, provide resources, and allow consumers time to ask questions. Sign up today!
Understanding Solar in Alberta
Thursday, July 9, 2026 | Noon
Thinking about installing solar? Solar installed on a property you purchased?
This free public presentation from the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) explains what Alberta consumers need to know before going solar. Learn about:
• The solar installation journey in Alberta
• Key regulations, including Rule 024
• Available incentives and how they affect costs and payback
• How solar impacts your utility bill
• Your rights and responsibilities as a consumer
Get the clarity you need to make informed solar decisions.
Understanding Utilities in Rural Alberta
Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | Noon
Utilities in rural Alberta can be very different from urban service.
Join the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) for a free public presentation covering:
• Rural rate classes and demand charges
• Electricity and natural gas options in rural areas
• Tips to lower rural utility bills
• What to consider before signing a utility contract
• How to access free mediation and consumer support
Tailored information for rural households and farms.
DIY Home Energy Audit
Wednesday, July 22, 2026 | Noon
Saving money on utility bills and improving your home’s energy efficiency doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.
In this free public presentation, the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA), Government of Alberta, will walk you through how to do a simple DIY home energy audit.
Learn how to identify air leaks, reduce energy waste, improve comfort, and spot potential safety concerns—using practical, low‑cost steps you can take right away.
Understanding Utilities in Alberta
Wednesday, July 29, 2026 | Noon
New to utilities or want a clearer picture of how Alberta’s electricity and natural gas markets work?
Join the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) for a free public presentation covering:
• How electricity and natural gas markets work in Alberta
• Free services and resources available through the UCA
• Tips to lower your utility bills
• What to know before signing a utility contract
• How to access free mediation support if issues arise
Gain the confidence to make informed utility decisions.
Tips to Reduce Water Usage while Gardening
Spring is here!
As many Albertans start working on their gardens, here are some tips to reduce outdoor water usage.
- Collect water with rain barrels
- Group plants with similar water needs
- Plant drought-resistant plants
- Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation
As part of the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) Winter Utilities Reconnection Program (WURP), the UCA will begin contacting Albertans with disconnected utilities starting November 1 to assist in reconnection where possible.
If you need financial assistance, the UCA may share your information with social agencies such as Alberta Works, AISH and seniors’ organizations, which may be able to help with payments.
Contact the UCA for help!
The UCA can share advice on how to compare utility rates, provide information on utility issues, and help settle disputes with your retailer.
The UCA offers interpreter services through CanTalk. When you are connected with a team member, identify your language of choice and we will bring an interpreter onto the call.
Please be patient as it may take time for the connection to be made.
Inside Alberta call: 310-4822
Outside Alberta call: 1-888-644-6608