Winnipeg

๐Ÿ”Œ

Local Utilities

Guidance on accessing essential city services such as electricity, water, natural gas, and garbage collection.

Sections

1. Types of Utilities in Winnipeg

Winnipeg residents typically need to set up the following utilities:

a. Electricity and Natural Gas

  • Provider: Manitoba Hydro is the primary provider for both electricity and natural gas in Winnipeg.
  • Electricity: Used for lighting, appliances, and some heating systems.
  • Natural Gas: Commonly used for home heating and water heating.

b. Water and Wastewater

  • Provider: The City of Winnipeg manages water, wastewater, and garbage collection services.
  • Services: Includes water supply, sewage disposal, and waste/recycling collection.

c. Internet, Cable, and Phone

  • Providers: Major providers include Bell MTS, Shaw Communications, and Telus. Smaller providers like TekSavvy and Xplore also operate in the area.
  • Services: Internet (fiber, cable, or DSL), cable TV, and landline/mobile phone services.

d. Waste and Recycling

  • Provider: The City of Winnipeg handles garbage, recycling, and yard waste collection.
  • Frequency: Weekly or bi-weekly collection depending on the service.

2. Estimated Monthly Costs

The cost of utilities in Winnipeg can vary depending on the size of your home, the number of occupants, and your usage habits. Below are average monthly costs:

a. Electricity and Natural Gas (Manitoba Hydro)

  • Electricity: $50โ€“$100/month for a small apartment; $100โ€“$200/month for a larger home.
  • Natural Gas: $50โ€“$150/month, depending on the season (higher in winter due to heating needs).
  • Combined Average: $150โ€“$300/month for both electricity and gas.

b. Water and Wastewater

  • Water: $30โ€“$60/month for a small household; $60โ€“$100/month for a larger family.
  • Wastewater and Garbage: Included in the water bill.

c. Internet, Cable, and Phone

  • Internet: $50โ€“$100/month for high-speed internet (50โ€“300 Mbps).
  • Cable TV: $25โ€“$100/month, depending on the package.
  • Phone: $30โ€“$80/month for mobile plans; $20โ€“$40/month for landlines.
  • Bundle Discounts: Many providers offer discounts for bundling services (e.g., internet + TV + phone).

d. Waste and Recycling

  • Cost: Included in property taxes for homeowners or in rent for tenants.

3. Steps to Set Up Utilities

a. Electricity and Natural Gas (Manitoba Hydro)

  1. Contact Manitoba Hydro:
  2. Provide Information:
    • Full name, address, and move-in date.
    • Government-issued ID (e.g., passport, driverโ€™s license).
    • Social Insurance Number (SIN) or a deposit may be required if you have no credit history in Canada.
  3. Set Up an Account:
    • You can set up your account online or by phone.
    • Manitoba Hydro may require a security deposit for new customers without a credit history in Canada.
  4. Billing:
    • Choose between monthly or bi-monthly billing.
    • Consider enrolling in the Equal Payment Plan (EPP) to spread costs evenly throughout the year.

b. Water and Wastewater (City of Winnipeg)

  1. Contact the City of Winnipeg Water and Waste Department:
  2. Provide Information:
    • Full name, address, and move-in date.
    • Proof of residency (e.g., lease agreement or property purchase documents).
  3. Set Up an Account:
    • Accounts are typically set up by the property owner. Tenants may need to coordinate with their landlord.
  4. Billing:
    • Water bills are issued quarterly.

c. Internet, Cable, and Phone

  1. Choose a Provider:
    • Compare plans and prices from providers like Bell MTS, Shaw, or Telus.
    • Check availability in your neighborhood (some areas may have limited options for fiber internet).
  2. Contact the Provider:
    • Provide your address, preferred services, and move-in date.
    • Some providers may require a credit check or deposit.
  3. Schedule Installation:
    • Installation appointments are typically required for new connections.
    • Fees may apply for installation or equipment rental (e.g., modems, routers).
  4. Billing:
    • Monthly billing is standard. Many providers offer autopay and paperless billing discounts.

d. Waste and Recycling

  1. Automatic Enrollment:
    • Waste and recycling services are automatically provided by the City of Winnipeg.
    • Tenants should confirm with their landlord if bins are already available.
  2. Collection Schedule:
    • Check your collection day on the City of Winnipeg website.
    • Download the "Winnipeg Collection Calendar" app for reminders.

4. Tips and Considerations

a. Winter Heating Costs

  • Winnipeg experiences harsh winters, so heating costs (natural gas) can be significant from November to March. Consider energy-efficient upgrades like weatherproofing windows and doors to reduce costs.

b. Equal Payment Plans

  • Manitoba Hydroโ€™s Equal Payment Plan (EPP) is highly recommended to avoid high winter bills. It averages your annual usage into equal monthly payments.

c. Internet Availability

  • Fiber internet is not yet available in all neighborhoods. Check with providers to confirm the best available option for your area.

d. Recycling and Composting

  • Winnipeg has a strong recycling program. Ensure you separate recyclables (blue bin) from garbage (black bin).
  • Yard waste collection is seasonal (spring to fall). Use compostable bags for yard waste.

e. Security Deposits

  • If youโ€™re new to Canada or have no credit history, utility providers may require a security deposit. This is refundable after 12 months of on-time payments.

f. Moving In/Out

  • Notify utility providers at least 2โ€“4 weeks before moving to ensure a smooth transition. For Manitoba Hydro, you can transfer your account to a new address.

g. Energy Efficiency Programs

  • Manitoba Hydro offers rebates and incentives for energy-efficient appliances and home upgrades. Check their website for current programs.

5. Key Contacts

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Winnipeg. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!