By The Canadian Press

EDMONTON - Energy Minister Mel Knight says he wouldn't sign a contract with any of Alberta's electricity suppliers because the spot price for power is the best deal.

Knight's comment appears to be a reversal of sorts after at least two previous energy ministers encouraged Albertans to sign energy supply contracts.

New Democrat Rachel Notley says the government should be creating legislation to make it easier for Albertans to get out of energy supply contracts.

Notley says many people feel they are being gouged because of the hefty penalties they must pay in order to end these power contracts.

Knight told reporters Albertans are astute when it comes to deciding the best options for their electricity needs.

But he says the cheapest power is on the spot market, which suggests Alberta's deregulated electricity is working by providing the lowest cost power.

Utilities and energy suppliers have been selling contracts for about five years, but Albertans have always had the option to stay with the spot price.