Who is Access Gas Services Inc.?

Access Gas Services Inc. is an innovative energy company supplying natural gas services to institutional, industrial, commercial and residential customers throughout Canada.

What is Commercial Unbundling in British Columbia?

Commercial Unbundling refers to separating your existing service of gas supply from your gas delivery. This means that you can purchase your natural gas from an independent marketer and still have that gas reliably delivered to your business by FortisBC Energy. The Unbundling option has been available to BC commercial customers since 2004.

What are the benefits of Unbundling?

The Unbundling Program allows you freedom of choice in choosing who you buy your gas from. By choosing Access Gas Services as your natural gas provider, you are protecting yourself from fluctuating gas prices by entering into a fixed rate for a period of 1 to 5 years.

What is Customer Choice?

Customer Choice is a program developed by FortisBC Energy that offers BC residential customers a choice in natural gas suppliers. Beginning May 2007, customers have been able to choose to sign with a gas marketer for a long-term, fixed rate agreement.

How do I know if I am eligible to take part in the Customer Choice program?

All FortisBC Energy customers living in the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, Interior and Kootenays are eligible to take part in this program. Due to different rate structures, customers in Fort Nelson, Vancouver Island, Powell River, Whistler, Revelstoke and the Sunshine Coast are not currently eligible for this offer.

How does Access Gas Services supply natural gas to my home or business?

Access Gas Services secures natural gas in the wholesale market, much the same way your local utility does, and then makes arrangements for your local utility to transport the gas to your home or small business. There is no interruption of service by choosing to buy your natural gas with us.

Will I receive two bills then?

No, In BC FortisBC Energy will continue to bill you as they always have. FortisBC will bill you directly for commodity, transportation and distribution costs. You will receive your contracted Access Gas Services rate, and Access Gas will be identified on the bill as your commodity provider. You will also continue to make your payments to FortisBC Energy and will still be able to take advantage of their various payment options. In Alberta, Access Gas will bill you directly for all commodity costs and distribution charges; you will remit payment to Access Gas.

How can I sign up with Access Gas Services?

You can sign up online on our website, or call us toll free at 1-877-519-0862.

When will my contract take effect?

The effective date depends on the timing of enrollment with your utility. In British Columbia, Commercial Unbundling and Residential Unbundling Agreements will take effect at the beginning of each month, subject to one full month notice of the change to FortisBC Energy. In Alberta, Commercial Agreements will take effect at the beginning of each month, following the execution of an agreement.

What happens if I move?

For residential consumers, as long as your move is within the eligible FortisBC Energy service areas, your energy agreement is fully transferable. Access Gas Services would appreciate that you give at least 60 days notice prior to your move to ensure there is no disruption of service. For commercial consumers, as long as your move is within the eligible utility service areas, Access Gas Services will allow you to take your energy agreement to your new location. However, your commercial natural gas supply agreement will need to be amended to reflect the new location. Access Gas Services would appreciate that you give 60 days notice prior to your move. This gives us time to accommodate your move, amend the agreement and coordinate with your local utility to ensure no disruption in service.

Is there a penalty for canceling my contract?

Once you sign your gas agreement with Access Gas Services, you have 10 days to cancel without penalty. After this 10 day window, you are legally bound to the contract and may be subject to early exit fees.

Who do I contact if I experience a disruption in service or a gas leak?

Your local utility will continue to be responsible for repairs and maintenance. The costs of these services are included in the rates charged by your local utility for distributing the gas.