Macao

1. Electricity

Service Provider

• Companhia de Electricidade de Macau (CEM) is the sole electricity provider in Macao.

Costs

• Electricity tariffs in Macao are divided into residential, commercial, and industrial categories. For residential users:
  • Basic Tariff: MOP 0.93–1.50 per kWh (depending on consumption levels).
  • Subsidies: The Macao government often provides subsidies to residents, which can reduce electricity bills significantly.

Application Procedure

• To set up an electricity account:
  1. Visit a CEM service center or apply online.
  2. Provide the following documents:
     • Identification (passport or Macao ID).
     • Proof of residence (rental agreement or property ownership document).
     • Completed application form.
  3. Pay a deposit (amount depends on the type of property and expected usage).

Payment Methods

• Payments can be made via:
  • Online banking.
  • CEM mobile app.
  • Automatic Payment Service (APS) through banks.
  • In-person at CEM offices or convenience stores.

Local Considerations

• Power outages are rare due to Macao's robust infrastructure.
• Energy conservation is encouraged, and many households use energy-efficient appliances.

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2. Water Supply

Service Provider

• Macao Water Supply Company Limited (Macao Water) is responsible for water distribution.

Costs

• Water tariffs are tiered based on consumption:
  • Residential Use: MOP 4.45 per cubic meter for the first 20 cubic meters, with higher rates for additional usage.
  • A monthly service fee of around MOP 5–10 is also charged.

Application Procedure

• To set up a water account:
  1. Visit a Macao Water service center or apply online.
  2. Submit the following:
     • Identification (passport or Macao ID).
     • Proof of residence.
     • Completed application form.
  3. Pay a deposit (usually MOP 200–500, depending on property type).

Payment Methods

• Payments can be made via:
  • Online banking.
  • Macao Water mobile app.
  • Automatic Payment Service (APS).
  • In-person at service centers or convenience stores.

Local Considerations

• Tap water in Macao is safe for general use, but many residents prefer to boil water or use filtration systems for drinking.

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3. Waste Management

Service Provider

• Waste collection and management are overseen by the Environmental Protection Bureau (DSPA) and contracted private companies.

Costs

• Waste management services are funded by the government, so there are no direct fees for residential waste collection.

Procedures

• Waste is collected daily, and residents are expected to:
  • Separate recyclables (paper, plastic, metal, and glass) and dispose of them in designated recycling bins.
  • Dispose of general waste in public trash bins or building-specific collection points.

Local Considerations

• Recycling is strongly encouraged, and there are numerous recycling stations across the city.
• Large or hazardous waste (e.g., furniture, electronics) must be disposed of at designated collection points or through special services.

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4. Internet Services

Service Providers

• Major internet service providers in Macao include:
  • CTM (Companhia de Telecomunicações de Macau).
  • China Telecom.
  • 3 Macau (for mobile internet).

Costs

• Internet plans vary based on speed and data limits:
  • Home Broadband: MOP 200–500 per month for speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
  • Mobile Data Plans: MOP 100–300 per month, depending on data usage.

Application Procedure

• To set up internet services:
  1. Visit the provider’s office or apply online.
  2. Provide:
     • Identification (passport or Macao ID).
     • Proof of residence.
     • Completed application form.
  3. Choose a plan and sign a contract (usually 12–24 months).

Payment Methods

• Payments can be made via:
  • Online banking.
  • Mobile apps of the service providers.
  • In-person at service centers.

Local Considerations

• Free Wi-Fi is widely available in public areas through the "WiFi Go" service provided by the government.
• Internet speeds in Macao are generally reliable and fast.

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5. Public Transportation

Service Providers

• Public transportation in Macao is managed by:
  • Transmac and T.C.M. (bus operators).
  • Light Rapid Transit (LRT) for specific routes.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab.

Costs

• Buses:
  • Fares range from MOP 3–6 per trip, depending on the route.
  • Payment can be made using cash or the Macau Pass (a rechargeable smart card).
• LRT:
  • Fares start at MOP 6 for short distances.
• Taxis:
  • Base fare: MOP 19 for the first 1.6 km, with additional charges for distance and waiting time.

Application Procedure

• For frequent use, purchase a Macau Pass:
  1. Available at convenience stores or bus terminals.
  2. Rechargeable at kiosks, convenience stores, or online.

Payment Methods

• Cash is accepted on buses and taxis.
• Macau Pass is widely used for buses, LRT, and small purchases at convenience stores.

Local Considerations

• Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transport.
• The LRT is still expanding, so its coverage is limited to certain areas.
• Taxis can be difficult to hail during peak hours; ride-hailing apps are a good alternative.

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General Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

1. Language: Most service providers offer support in Chinese (Cantonese) and Portuguese. English is also commonly used in customer service.
2. Government Subsidies: The Macao government frequently provides subsidies for utilities, especially for residents. Check with service providers for eligibility.
3. Cultural Practices: Punctuality and politeness are valued in Macao. Be respectful when interacting with service staff.
4. Emergency Numbers:
   • Police: 999 or 110.
   • Fire and Ambulance: 999 or 120.
   • CEM (Electricity): +853 2833 9911.
   • Macao Water: +853 2822 0088.

By understanding these utilities and infrastructure details, visitors and immigrants can navigate life in Macao with ease and confidence.