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Lorena Smalley

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!

Choosing a Retailer

A woman watching a webinar on an ipad.

Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | Noon

Have you ever looked at utility companies and felt overwhelmed by all the options? Did you know there are over 50 different utility retailers in Alberta? Find out which ones are available for your area and how to pick the best one for your budget and needs.

The Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) a part of the Ministry of Affordability and Utilities at the Government of Alberta is offering a free public presentation. Learn about how to use the Cost Comparison Tool to choose a utility service provider and what to look for before signing a utility contract.

Understanding Utilities in Rural Alberta

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 | Noon

The Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA), Government of Alberta, is hosting a free public presentation about Rural Utilities in Alberta.

This session will cover a range of valuable topics, including:
• Understanding demand charge and rate classes
• Exploring rural utility options
• Ways to lower your utility bills
• Key factors to consider before signing a utility contract, and
• How to access free advice and support through the UCA’s mediation team if you have issues with your utility provider

Understanding Utilities in Alberta

Utility poles in a field.

Thursday, April 23 2026 | Noon

The Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA), Government of Alberta, is hosting a free public presentation about Alberta’s Electricity and Natural Gas markets. This session will cover a range of valuable topics, including:
• free services and resources provided by the UCA
• ways to lower your utility bills
• key factors to consider before signing a utility contract, and
• how to access free advice and support through the UCA’s mediation team if you have issues with your utility provider

Understanding Solar in Alberta

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 | Noon

Alberta’s energy market, regulatory framework, and incentive programs make solar a practical option for many consumers. But to make informed decisions, you need clarity on the process, costs, and benefits.

The Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) a part of the Ministry of Affordability and Utilities at the Government of Alberta is offering a free public presentation to answer a few key questions:• What does the solar installation journey look like in Alberta?
• How do regulations like Rule 024 affect your choices?
• What financial incentives are available, and how do they impact payback?
• How will solar change your utility bill?
• What are your rights and responsibilities as a consumer?

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