Distribution and Transmission Charges

D and T rates and charges explained

Wondering about those EPCOR distribution and transmission rates (D and T) or delivery charges on your Encor bill? They seem like such a large part of your bill, but they’re quite reasonable when you consider all the infrastructure and services they cover.

You’ll see D and T charges on your electricity bill and delivery charges on your gas bill. Delivery charges on your natural gas bill are related to natural gas transmission and distribution through the natural gas distribution system. The natural gas distribution system is the pipeline system used for moving natural gas from the processing plant to your home or business.

The D and T System - Distribution and Transmission Systems

The D and T System helps us grow and sustain reliable energy in Alberta communities. A well-maintained energy grid means being able to count on your energy being there when you need it.

Energy is like any other purchase you make—there is an entire system that supports it. When you purchase a product from a store, the receipt shows the total price you pay for your item. You don’t see the cost breakdown of materials, shipping, and manufacturing, but those things all factor into the price you pay.

Your energy bill is different. We want you to be able to see what you pay for the energy you use separate from the costs associated with delivering that energy to your home or business.

Administration, Transmission and Delivery Charges are regulated and approved by the Albe​rta Utilities Commission (AUC). Every Albertan that is connected to the grid pays them—even those who don't consume energy from the grid. These charges ensure the continued maintenance and upgrading of the grid infrastructure. Learn more about retailer charges for power or natural gas on the AUC website​.

​What services do D and T charges pay for?

Specifically, the charges you see on your bill cover the costs for your power and natural gas distribution and transmission company to ensure:

• The maintenance of gas and power lines so you get reliable and uninterrupted service to brand new and mature neighbourhoods.
• The ability for crews to quickly and safely respond to outages to get you back up and running.
• Regular upgrades to the grid, which opens a world of possibilities to invest in renewable energy and improve the reliability of power and gas utility services.
• The installation and readings of your home utility meter.

With continued maintenance, our existing power systems and utility grid will serve us all for years to come, bringing us heat on our coldest days, light on our darkest nights and energy for everything in between.

Learn more about understanding your bill from the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA) and discover how we're regulated and our rates are approved on the Alberta Utilities Commission website.​​