Guilin

1. Electricity

Provider:

• The primary electricity provider in Guilin is China Southern Power Grid (CSPG), which serves most of southern China.

Costs:

• Electricity in Guilin is relatively affordable. Rates are tiered based on usage:
  • First tier: ~¥0.56 per kWh (for monthly usage under 210 kWh).
  • Second tier: ~¥0.61 per kWh (for usage between 210–400 kWh).
  • Third tier: ~¥0.87 per kWh (for usage above 400 kWh).
• Rates may vary slightly depending on the season and government adjustments.

Setting Up:

• For long-term residents renting an apartment, electricity is usually already connected. The landlord will provide details about the meter and payment process.
• If you’re moving into a new property, you’ll need to visit the local CSPG office with your ID (passport for foreigners), proof of residence (rental agreement), and a deposit (usually ¥100–¥300).

Payment Methods:

• Prepaid meters: Many apartments in Guilin use prepaid electricity meters. You can top up at:
  • Local CSPG offices.
  • Convenience stores with payment terminals.
  • Online platforms like WeChat or Alipay (search for the electricity payment option and input your meter number).
• Postpaid meters: If your apartment uses a postpaid system, you’ll receive a monthly bill that can be paid online or at a CSPG office.

Practical Tips:

• Monitor your electricity usage, especially in summer when air conditioning is heavily used.
• Power outages are rare but can occur during storms. Keep a flashlight handy and charge essential devices in advance.

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2. Water

Provider:

• Water services in Guilin are managed by the Guilin Water Supply Company.

Costs:

• Water is inexpensive in Guilin, with rates typically around:
  • Residential use: ~¥2.5–¥3.5 per cubic meter.
  • Sewage fee: An additional ~¥0.9–¥1.5 per cubic meter.
• Monthly water bills for a small household usually range from ¥20–¥50.

Setting Up:

• Water is usually already connected in rental properties. The landlord will provide the account number for payments.
• For new properties, visit the Guilin Water Supply Company office with your ID, proof of residence, and a deposit (¥100–¥200).

Payment Methods:

• Bills can be paid:
  • At the water company office.
  • Through WeChat or Alipay (search for the water bill payment option and input your account number).
  • At convenience stores with payment terminals.

Practical Tips:

• Tap water in Guilin is not potable. Always boil water or use a water purifier for drinking and cooking.
• Water pressure can vary in older buildings, so consider this when choosing accommodation.

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3. Gas

Provider:

• Gas services in Guilin are provided by Guilin Gas Company.

Costs:

• Gas is used primarily for cooking and heating water. Rates are around:
  • Residential use: ~¥2.5–¥3.0 per cubic meter.
• Monthly gas bills for a small household typically range from ¥30–¥80, depending on usage.

Setting Up:

• Gas is usually connected in rental properties. The landlord will provide the account number and instructions for payment.
• For new properties, visit the Guilin Gas Company office with your ID, proof of residence, and a deposit (¥200–¥500).

Payment Methods:

• Gas bills can be paid:
  • At the gas company office.
  • Through WeChat or Alipay (search for the gas bill payment option and input your account number).
  • At convenience stores with payment terminals.

Practical Tips:

• Gas leaks are rare but can happen. If you smell gas, open windows, turn off the gas valve, and call the emergency hotline (usually printed on your gas meter or bill).
• Some older apartments may use bottled gas instead of piped gas. Bottled gas can be ordered from local suppliers and costs around ¥80–¥120 per bottle.

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4. Internet Services

Providers:

• Major internet service providers in Guilin include:
  • China Telecom (most popular for home broadband).
  • China Unicom.
  • China Mobile.

Costs:

• Internet packages vary based on speed and provider. Typical plans include:
  • 100 Mbps: ~¥100–¥150 per month.
  • 300 Mbps: ~¥150–¥200 per month.
• Many providers offer discounts for annual payments or bundling with mobile phone plans.

Setting Up:

• To set up internet service, visit the provider’s office with your ID and proof of residence. Some providers also allow online applications.
• Installation fees may apply (~¥100–¥200), but these are often waived during promotions.
• Installation usually takes 1–3 days.

Payment Methods:

• Monthly payments can be made:
  • Online via the provider’s app or website.
  • Through WeChat or Alipay.
  • At the provider’s office.

Practical Tips:

• Internet speeds in Guilin are generally reliable, but rural areas may have slower connections.
• If you’re staying short-term, consider using a mobile data plan with a local SIM card instead of setting up home broadband.

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General Advice for Visitors and Residents

1. Language Barrier: Most utility company staff speak only Mandarin or the local dialect. If you don’t speak Chinese, consider bringing a local friend or using a translation app.
2. WeChat and Alipay: These apps are essential for paying utility bills and other services in Guilin. Set them up as soon as possible after arriving.
3. Utility Deposits: Deposits for utilities are usually refundable when you move out, provided there are no outstanding bills.
4. Cultural Considerations:
   • Utility usage is often more conservative in China compared to Western countries. Locals tend to turn off lights and appliances when not in use to save energy.
   • Be mindful of water and electricity usage, especially in shared accommodations.

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By understanding how public utilities work in Guilin, you’ll be better prepared to manage your stay, whether it’s for a short visit or a long-term relocation. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!