This course will explain how utility systems work. Natural gas, traditional, and alternative electricity generation, transmission, distribution, retail, and billing will be explored. Students will examine the complexities of renewable energy procurement. Metering and sub-metering at the client end will be addressed. Non-energy utility systems such as water will be reviewed as well. Students will examine different utility bills to better understand details often misunderstood in billing. The history of the utility system in Canada and Alberta will be explained to provide context for the setup of today's system. Students will look at how rates are set, how the power pool works, and how energy efficiency is integrated into the system. They will explore the roles of the Alberta Utilities Commission, the Alberta Energy Systems Operator, and Energy Alberta.Note: Restricted to Energy Management and Open Studies.
