How harsh are the penalties for using your phone while driving over there?

Very very light.

9. What is the fine for distracted driving? The fine is $172 for this offence. This amount includes a fine of $150 plus the 15 percent victims' surcharge. This fine is in keeping with the fines for other traffic violations.
10. Are there demerit points for this offence? No. It is felt that the dollar fine will encourage drivers to focus on driving. Drivers that exhibit what is deemed to be more serious or risky behaviors could be charged with 'driving carelessly' under the Traffic Safety Act. The penalty for the existing 'driving carelessly' offence carries six demerit points and a fine of $402. If a driver does commit a moving violation while engaged in one of these activities, or any other deemed as a distraction, they could receive two tickets - one for distracted driving, and one for the moving violation.

https://www.transportation.alberta.ca/Content/docType3679/Production/FAQ.pdf

Demerit points

(I am not American, but I have had the displeasure of seeing one up here)