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Utilities in Guilin, China: A Comprehensive Guide

If you are planning to live in or visit Guilin, China, understanding how to manage utilities is essential for a smooth experience. Below is a detailed guide to the key utilities in Guilin, including electricity, water, gas, and internet services. This guide covers costs, payment methods, setup procedures, and local considerations to help you navigate these services effectively.

1. Electricity

Provider

Electricity in Guilin is managed by the China Southern Power Grid (CSPG), which serves most of southern China. The electricity supply is reliable, with occasional outages during extreme weather conditions.

Costs

  • Residential Rates: Electricity is charged on a tiered system based on usage:
    • Tier 1: ¥0.56 per kWh (up to 210 kWh per month)
    • Tier 2: ¥0.61 per kWh (211–400 kWh per month)
    • Tier 3: ¥0.87 per kWh (above 400 kWh per month)
  • Additional Fees: A small renewable energy surcharge (around ¥0.015 per kWh) is included in the bill.

Setup

  • Short-Term Visitors: If you are renting an apartment, electricity is usually already set up. The landlord may include electricity costs in your rent or ask you to pay based on usage.
  • Long-Term Residents: If you are renting or buying a property, you may need to register for electricity service. This can be done at the local CSPG office. Bring the following:
    • Passport and visa
    • Proof of residence (rental agreement or property ownership documents)
    • Deposit (usually ¥100–¥300, depending on the property size)

Payment Methods

  • Prepaid Meters: Many apartments in Guilin use prepaid electricity meters. You can top up your meter using:
    • Mobile apps like WeChat or Alipay
    • CSPG service centers or kiosks
  • Postpaid Bills: If your electricity is postpaid, you can pay via:
    • Bank transfer
    • Online payment through CSPG’s website or app
    • In-person at CSPG offices or convenience stores

Local Considerations

  • Energy Conservation: Electricity costs can rise significantly in summer (due to air conditioning) and winter (if using electric heaters). Be mindful of usage to avoid high bills.
  • Voltage: The standard voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Ensure your appliances are compatible or use a voltage converter.

2. Water

Provider

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

Costs

  • Residential Rates: Water is relatively inexpensive in Guilin:
    • ¥1.85 per cubic meter for the first 15 cubic meters
    • ¥2.80 per cubic meter for 16–30 cubic meters
    • ¥4.00 per cubic meter for usage above 30 cubic meters
  • Sewage Fee: An additional fee of around ¥0.90 per cubic meter is charged for wastewater treatment.

Setup

  • Short-Term Visitors: Water is typically included in the rent or managed by the landlord.
  • Long-Term Residents: To set up water service, visit the Guilin Water Supply Company office with:
    • Passport and visa
    • Proof of residence
    • Deposit (usually ¥100–¥200)

Payment Methods

  • Monthly Bills: Water bills are usually paid monthly. Payment options include:
    • Mobile apps (WeChat, Alipay)
    • Bank transfer
    • In-person at water company offices or convenience stores

Local Considerations

  • Drinking Water: Tap water in Guilin is not safe for direct consumption. Use a water filter or purchase bottled water for drinking.
  • Water Pressure: In older buildings, water pressure may be low, especially on higher floors. Consider installing a booster pump if necessary.

3. Gas

Provider

Gas services in Guilin are provided by the Guilin Gas Company. Most homes use piped natural gas for cooking and heating water.

Costs

  • Residential Rates: Natural gas costs around ¥2.50–¥3.00 per cubic meter, depending on usage.
  • Deposit: A deposit of ¥200–¥500 may be required when setting up service.

Setup

  • Short-Term Visitors: Gas is usually included in rental agreements. The landlord will handle payments and maintenance.
  • Long-Term Residents: To set up gas service, visit the Guilin Gas Company office with:
    • Passport and visa
    • Proof of residence
    • Deposit payment

Payment Methods

  • Prepaid Meters: Many homes use prepaid gas meters. You can top up using:
    • WeChat or Alipay
    • Gas company offices or kiosks
  • Postpaid Bills: If your gas is postpaid, you can pay via:
    • Bank transfer
    • In-person at gas company offices

Local Considerations

  • Safety: Gas leaks are rare but can occur. Ensure your home has a functioning gas detector and that you know how to shut off the gas supply in an emergency.
  • Winter Heating: Central heating is uncommon in Guilin, so gas-powered water heaters are often used for hot water and heating.

4. Internet Services

Providers

The main internet service providers in Guilin are:

  • China Telecom
  • China Unicom
  • China Mobile

Costs

  • Broadband Plans: Internet costs vary based on speed and provider:
    • 100 Mbps: ¥100–¥150 per month
    • 200 Mbps: ¥150–¥200 per month
    • 500 Mbps or higher: ¥200–¥300 per month
  • Mobile Data: If you prefer mobile internet, SIM cards with data plans cost around ¥50–¥100 per month for 10–20 GB of data.

Setup

  • Visit the provider’s office or authorized retailer with:
    • Passport and visa
    • Proof of residence
    • Deposit (if required)
  • Installation usually takes 1–3 days. Some providers offer same-day installation.

Payment Methods

  • Monthly payments can be made via:
    • WeChat or Alipay
    • Bank transfer
    • In-person at provider offices

Local Considerations

  • VPN: Many international websites and apps (e.g., Google, Facebook, YouTube) are blocked in China. Consider purchasing a reliable VPN before arriving in Guilin.
  • Customer Service: Most providers have limited English-speaking staff. If you don’t speak Mandarin, bring a translator or ask a local friend for help.

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Guilin

  1. Mobile Apps: WeChat and Alipay are essential for managing utilities. They allow you to pay bills, top up prepaid meters, and track usage.
  2. Language Barrier: Most utility offices and customer service hotlines operate in Mandarin. If you don’t speak the language, consider using a translation app or seeking assistance from a local.
  3. Keep Receipts: Always keep receipts or screenshots of payments for reference in case of disputes.
  4. Emergency Numbers:
    • Electricity: 95598
    • Water: 0773-12345
    • Gas: 0773-12319
    • Internet: Contact your provider’s hotline (listed on your contract).

By understanding these systems and following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently manage utilities during your stay in Guilin, whether short-term or long-term.