Nanjing

💡

Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity (电力 - Diànlì)

Provider

  • The primary electricity provider in Nanjing is the State Grid Corporation of China (国家电网 - Guójiā Diànwǎng).

Setup Process

  • For renters: In most cases, landlords handle the setup of electricity accounts. Ensure that the electricity account is active when you move in. If you need to set it up yourself, visit the local State Grid office with your passport, rental agreement, and property details.
  • For homeowners: You will need to register for an account at the State Grid office or online via their official website or app.

Costs

  • Electricity is charged based on usage, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Rates vary depending on the season and time of day:
    • Standard rate: Around ¥0.55–¥0.65 per kWh.
    • Peak hours: Higher rates may apply during peak hours (e.g., 8 AM–10 PM).
    • Off-peak hours: Lower rates apply during off-peak hours (e.g., 10 PM–8 AM).

Payment Methods

  • Prepaid meters: Many apartments use prepaid electricity meters. You can top up your balance via:
    • The State Grid app (requires a Chinese bank account).
    • Alipay or WeChat Pay.
    • Local convenience stores or kiosks.
  • Postpaid billing: If your account is postpaid, you’ll receive a monthly bill that can be paid online or at a bank.

Tips

  • Monitor your electricity usage, especially during summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating), as costs can rise significantly.
  • Learn how to check your meter to avoid running out of prepaid electricity unexpectedly.

2. Water (自来水 - Zìláishuǐ)

Provider

  • The main water supplier in Nanjing is the Nanjing Water Group (南京水务集团 - Nánjīng Shuǐwù Jítuán).

Setup Process

  • Water services are typically already set up in rental properties. If not, contact the Nanjing Water Group to register an account. You’ll need your passport, rental agreement, and property details.

Costs

  • Water is relatively inexpensive in Nanjing:
    • Residential rate: Around ¥2–¥4 per cubic meter.
    • Monthly water bills for an average household are typically under ¥50.

Payment Methods

  • Bills can be paid via:
    • The Nanjing Water Group app or website.
    • Alipay or WeChat Pay.
    • Local banks or convenience stores.

Tips

  • Tap water in Nanjing is not safe for drinking. Use a water filter or purchase bottled water for drinking and cooking.
  • Check for leaks in your apartment to avoid unnecessary charges.

3. Gas (燃气 - Ránqì)

Provider

  • The main gas provider in Nanjing is the Nanjing Gas Group (南京燃气集团 - Nánjīng Ránqì Jítuán).

Setup Process

  • Gas services are usually pre-installed in rental properties. If you need to set it up, contact the Nanjing Gas Group. You’ll need your passport, rental agreement, and property details.

Costs

  • Gas is charged based on usage, measured in cubic meters:
    • Residential rate: Around ¥2.5–¥3 per cubic meter.
    • Monthly gas bills for an average household are typically ¥50–¥100, depending on usage (e.g., for cooking and heating water).

Payment Methods

  • Prepaid meters: Many apartments use prepaid gas meters. You can top up via:
    • The Nanjing Gas Group app.
    • Alipay or WeChat Pay.
    • Local convenience stores.
  • Postpaid billing: Monthly bills can be paid online or at a bank.

Tips

  • Regularly check your gas meter to ensure you don’t run out of credit.
  • Be cautious about gas safety. Ensure your apartment has proper ventilation and a functioning gas detector.

4. Internet (宽带 - Kuāndài)

Providers

  • Major internet service providers in Nanjing include:
    • China Telecom (中国电信 - Zhōngguó Diànxìn).
    • China Unicom (中国联通 - Zhōngguó Liántōng).
    • China Mobile (中国移动 - Zhōngguó Yídòng).

Setup Process

  • Visit a local branch of your chosen provider with your passport and rental agreement.
  • Choose a plan based on your needs (e.g., speed, data limits). Most plans are bundled with mobile phone services for discounts.

Costs

  • Internet plans typically cost:
    • Basic plan: ¥100–¥150 per month for speeds of 100–300 Mbps.
    • High-speed plan: ¥200+ per month for speeds of 500 Mbps or higher.
  • Some providers offer discounts for annual prepayment.

Payment Methods

  • Payments can be made via:
    • The provider’s app or website.
    • Alipay or WeChat Pay.
    • In-person at the provider’s office.

Tips

  • Internet installation may take a few days. Schedule the setup as soon as you move in.
  • Wi-Fi routers are often provided by the ISP, but you can purchase your own for better performance.

5. Mobile Phone Services

While not a utility, mobile phone services are essential for managing utilities in Nanjing. Major providers include China Telecom, China Unicom, and China Mobile. Plans typically cost ¥50–¥200 per month, depending on data and call allowances. You’ll need a Chinese SIM card to use apps like Alipay and WeChat for utility payments.

6. Payment Platforms

In Nanjing, most utility payments are made through digital platforms:

  • Alipay (支付宝 - Zhīfùbǎo) and WeChat Pay (微信支付 - Wēixìn Zhīfù) are the most commonly used apps.
  • Link your Chinese bank account to these apps for seamless payments.
  • Many utility providers also have their own apps for account management and payments.

7. Cultural and Practical Tips

  • Language barrier: Most utility providers’ websites and apps are in Chinese. Use translation apps or ask a local friend for help if needed.
  • Landlord involvement: For renters, landlords often manage utility accounts. Confirm with your landlord how utilities are billed and paid.
  • Energy conservation: Electricity and gas costs can add up, especially during extreme weather. Be mindful of your usage.
  • Emergency contacts:
    • Electricity: 95598 (State Grid hotline).
    • Water: 96195 (Nanjing Water Group hotline).
    • Gas: 968896 (Nanjing Gas Group hotline).

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to set up and manage utilities in Nanjing. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to ask your landlord, neighbors, or local service providers for assistance.