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As the Rate of Last Resort continues in its first 2-year term, it can be helpful to see how it compares to competitive rates.

As of March 2026, the RoLR has been higher than most fixed and floating rates in Alberta. For example, the floating rate average (¢4.225/kWh) in March 2026 was 62% lower than the RoLR average (11.323¢/kWh). The March 2026 fixed rate average (¢8.505/kWh) was 28% lower than the RoLR average for the month.

The RoLR is more stable and predictable than the previous Regulated Rate Option, which was prone to price swings and changed every month. However, customers can see greater savings by signing up for a competitive electricity plan.
Learn more about the Rate of Last Resort here: https://loom.ly/HVYwCo0

The growth of renewable energy sources in Alberta has had a significant impact on electricity-related emissions. Its intensity was 0.39 tCO2e/MWh in 2025 compared to 0.81 tCO2e/MWh in 2015 - a decline of 52%. After phasing out coal, the province's primary power source is currently natural gas.

To learn about the energy sources in Alberta and other provinces, check our full guide here:

https://loom.ly/FHUFjJo

The Main Electricity Sources in Canada by Province Electricity generation in Canada: From hydro to solar power, learn what are the main sources of electricity for each Canadian province.

Floating electricity rates in Alberta have been significantly lower than fixed rates and the Rate of Last Resort. For example, the floating rate average for January 2026 was ¢5.922/kWh, 34% lower than the fixed-rate average of ¢8.402/kWh and 67% lower than the RoLR average of ¢12.03/kWh.

Some of the reasons for lower floating rates include new generation plants coming online, along with new renewable generation. The new generation mix has been able to meet provincial power demand and keep prices low.

While floating rates can have lower prices, they are subject to price spikes. Customers should be prepared for fluctuations when signing up for a variable rate. These plans are ideal for consumers with a higher risk tolerance

If you are looking to sign up for a floating rate, most retailers allow you to switch plans or switch retailers at any time without cancellation fees. Double-check with your energy retailer on their cancellation policy.

Visit Energyrates.ca to find the lowest variable rates in your area: https://loom.ly/PH6yY-A

It has been one year since the Rate of Last Resort launched in Alberta in January 2025. In that time, RoLR prices have remained stable and have not increased. And when compared to the former RRO, the RoLR has been more affordable and less volatile.

However, the RoLR has been higher than several current fixed and floating rate plans. For example, the RoLR 2025 average of 12.03¢/kWh was 41% higher than the 13-month fixed rate average of 8.49 ¢/kWh.

Entering 2026, the Rate of Last Resort is set to remain around 12¢/kWh. This is still higher than many competitive plans.

Read our in-depth review of the Rate of Last Resort here: https://loom.ly/jCH7v-U

Alberta’s Rate of Last Resort a Year Later: A Full Recap How the RoLR compares to other plans after the first year In November 2024, the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) announced that the Regulated Rate Option (RRO) for electricity would be effectively replaced in January 2025 by the Rate of Last Resort (RoLR). The main idea was to switch from RRO’...

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