Setting Up Utilities in Canada: A Complete Guide for Newcomers
By WelcomeAide Team
Understanding Canadian Utilities
When you first arrive in Canada and move into your new home, one of the first tasks on your settlement checklist is setting up your utilities. In Canada, utilities include electricity, natural gas (for heating and cooking), water, internet, and phone service. Depending on where you live and whether you rent or own, some of these may already be included in your rent or strata fees. It is important to clarify with your landlord or property manager exactly which utilities you are responsible for before you move in.
The terminology can be confusing for newcomers. In provinces like Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, electricity is often called "hydro" because much of the power is generated by hydroelectric dams. This is why your electric utility company might have "hydro" in its name, such as BC Hydro or Toronto Hydro. Natural gas is a separate utility used primarily for home heating and hot water. Water and sewer services are typically provided by your municipality.
Setting Up Electricity (Hydro)
Electricity is the most essential utility you need to set up. In most provinces, there is a primary electricity provider, and you contact them to open an account in your name. Here are the major providers by province:
- British Columbia: BC Hydro (most of BC) or FortisBC (Kootenay/Okanagan regions)
- Alberta: Multiple retailers; ENMAX (Calgary), EPCOR (Edmonton), or choose from competitive retailers
- Ontario: Local distribution companies like Toronto Hydro, Hydro One, or Alectra Utilities
- Quebec: Hydro-Quebec
- Manitoba: Manitoba Hydro
- Saskatchewan: SaskPower
To open an account, you will typically need your full name, new address, move-in date, and a piece of government-issued identification. Most providers allow you to set up your account online or by phone. The process usually takes one to three business days, but it is best to arrange it at least a week before your move-in date.
Electricity Costs by Province
Electricity costs vary significantly across Canada. Quebec has the lowest rates in the country, averaging around 7 to 8 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), thanks to abundant hydroelectric power. British Columbia is also relatively affordable at around 9 to 12 cents per kWh. Ontario rates fluctuate based on time-of-use pricing, ranging from 7 to 17 cents per kWh depending on the time of day. Alberta and Saskatchewan tend to have higher rates, often between 12 and 18 cents per kWh. For an average household, monthly electricity bills range from $60 in Quebec to $150 or more in Alberta.
Setting Up Natural Gas
Natural gas is used in many Canadian homes for heating, hot water, and cooking. Not all homes use natural gas; some rely entirely on electricity or other heating sources. If your home has gas appliances or a gas furnace, you will need to set up a gas account. Major gas providers include FortisBC (British Columbia), ATCO Gas and ENMAX (Alberta), Enbridge Gas (Ontario), and Energir (Quebec). The setup process is similar to electricity: contact the provider, give them your details, and schedule the connection.
Gas costs also vary by province and season. During the winter heating season (November through March), gas bills can increase significantly. In provinces like Alberta, where winters are harsh, monthly gas bills during winter can reach $150 to $250 for a detached home. In milder climates like southern British Columbia, winter gas bills might be $80 to $150. Summer gas bills are much lower, typically $20 to $40, as gas is used mainly for hot water and cooking.
Deposit Requirements for Newcomers
Many utility providers require a security deposit from new customers who do not have a Canadian credit history. This is common for newcomers. The deposit amount varies but is typically equivalent to one to two months of estimated usage, ranging from $50 to $300. The deposit is usually refunded after 12 to 24 months of on-time payments. Some providers may waive the deposit if you agree to automatic payment through your bank account or credit card. Always ask about deposit requirements when setting up your account.
Water and Sewer Services
Water and sewer services in Canada are typically provided by your local municipality. In many rental situations, water is included in your rent, but this is not always the case, especially in single-family homes. If you are responsible for water, you may need to contact your city's utility department to set up an account. In some cities, water is billed based on metered usage, while in others, it is a flat rate based on property size.
Monthly water bills in Canada typically range from $30 to $80 for a household. Some municipalities also charge separate fees for stormwater drainage and sewer services. When you purchase a home, water service is usually transferred automatically as part of the property transfer process, but it is always good to confirm with your municipality.
Internet Service
Reliable internet is essential for newcomers, whether for job searching, connecting with family back home, accessing government services online, or helping your children with school. Canada has several major internet providers, and the best option for you will depend on your location, budget, and speed requirements.
Major internet providers include Bell (Ontario, Quebec, Atlantic Canada), Rogers (Ontario), Shaw/Freedom (Western Canada, now part of Rogers), Telus (British Columbia, Alberta), Videotron (Quebec), and SaskTel (Saskatchewan). There are also many smaller providers and resellers that offer lower prices, such as TekSavvy, Oxio, and Start.ca. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulates internet services in Canada.
Internet Costs and Plans
Internet costs in Canada are generally higher than in many other countries. A basic plan with speeds of 50 to 75 Mbps (sufficient for browsing, streaming, and video calls) typically costs $50 to $70 per month. Plans with faster speeds (150 to 500 Mbps), suitable for households with multiple users and devices, range from $70 to $100 per month. Gigabit plans (1,000 Mbps) can cost $100 to $130 per month. Many providers offer bundle discounts if you combine internet with TV or phone service.
Phone Service: Mobile and Landline
Most newcomers will prioritize getting a mobile phone plan. Canada's major mobile carriers are Bell, Rogers, and Telus, but their subsidiary brands and other carriers often offer better value. Freedom Mobile, Koodo, Fido, Virgin Plus, and Public Mobile are popular choices for budget-conscious newcomers. A basic mobile plan with unlimited Canada-wide calling, texting, and data starts at around $25 to $35 per month for limited data (1 to 5 GB) and $45 to $75 per month for larger data packages (10 to 50 GB).
Landline phone service is becoming less common in Canada, as most people rely on mobile phones. However, if you prefer a home phone, you can get one through your internet or cable provider for an additional $15 to $30 per month. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Ooma or MagicJack offer even cheaper alternatives.
Energy-Saving Tips for Newcomers
Canada's climate means that heating costs can be substantial, especially during the winter months. Here are practical tips to reduce your utility bills. Keep your thermostat at 20 to 21 degrees Celsius during the day and lower it to 17 degrees at night or when you are away. Use a programmable or smart thermostat to automate this process. Seal drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk. Close curtains at night to retain heat, and open them during the day to take advantage of solar warmth.
For electricity savings, switch to LED light bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. Unplug electronics when not in use, as many devices draw power even when turned off (called phantom or standby power). Run your dishwasher and laundry machines during off-peak hours if your province uses time-of-use pricing. In Ontario, for example, electricity is cheapest on weekends, holidays, and weekday evenings after 7 PM.
Government Rebate Programs
Many provinces and the federal government offer rebates and incentives for energy-efficient upgrades. The Canada Greener Homes initiative and provincial programs can provide grants for insulation upgrades, heat pump installations, and other improvements. Even as a renter, you may benefit from programs that provide free energy audits or subsidized LED bulb exchanges. Check with your utility provider and provincial government for available programs.
WelcomeAide is here to help you with every aspect of settling in Canada. Our AI Newcomer Navigator can answer your questions about utilities, housing, and more. Explore our blog for more newcomer guides, learn about our mission, or see how to get involved in supporting newcomer communities across Canada.