Wuzhen

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Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity Services in Wuzhen

Electricity in Wuzhen is managed by the State Grid Corporation of China, which oversees power distribution across the country.

Setting Up Electricity Services

  • Who to Contact: The local branch of the State Grid Corporation in Wuzhen.
  • Procedure:
    1. Visit the local State Grid office or contact your landlord/property manager if you are renting.
    2. Provide necessary documents, such as your passport, proof of residence (rental agreement or property ownership certificate), and a completed application form.
    3. Pay a deposit (usually refundable when you terminate the service).
  • Connection Time: Typically, electricity is already connected in rental properties. If not, it can take 1-3 business days to activate.

Costs

  • Billing: Electricity is billed monthly based on usage (measured in kilowatt-hours, kWh).
  • Rates: Residential electricity rates in Wuzhen are tiered:
    • First tier (low usage): ~0.53 RMB/kWh
    • Second tier (moderate usage): ~0.63 RMB/kWh
    • Third tier (high usage): ~0.88 RMB/kWh
  • Payment Methods:
    • Online via the State Grid app or website.
    • At local convenience stores or banks.
    • Through Alipay or WeChat Pay (popular mobile payment platforms in China).

Local Considerations

  • Power outages are rare but may occur during storms or maintenance. Keep a flashlight handy.
  • Energy-saving practices are encouraged, as higher usage incurs higher rates.

2. Water Services in Wuzhen

Water supply in Wuzhen is managed by the Tongxiang Water Supply Company, which ensures clean and safe water for residents.

Setting Up Water Services

  • Who to Contact: The Tongxiang Water Supply Company or your landlord/property manager.
  • Procedure:
    1. If you are renting, water services are usually pre-connected. Confirm with your landlord.
    2. For new connections, visit the local water company office with your passport, proof of residence, and a completed application form.
    3. Pay a connection fee and deposit if required.
  • Connection Time: 1-2 business days for new connections.

Costs

  • Billing: Water is billed monthly based on usage (measured in cubic meters).
  • Rates: Residential water rates are approximately:
    • ~2.5 RMB per cubic meter for basic usage.
    • Higher rates apply for excessive usage.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Online via the Tongxiang Water Supply Company website or app.
    • Alipay or WeChat Pay.
    • At local banks or convenience stores.

Local Considerations

  • Tap water is not potable in Wuzhen. Most residents boil water or use water purifiers for drinking.
  • Be mindful of water conservation, as excessive usage can lead to higher bills.

3. Gas Services in Wuzhen

Gas services in Wuzhen are typically used for cooking and heating and are managed by the Tongxiang Gas Company.

Setting Up Gas Services

  • Who to Contact: The Tongxiang Gas Company or your landlord/property manager.
  • Procedure:
    1. If you are renting, gas services are often pre-connected. Confirm with your landlord.
    2. For new connections, visit the gas company office with your passport, proof of residence, and a completed application form.
    3. Pay a connection fee and deposit if required.
  • Connection Time: 1-3 business days for new connections.

Costs

  • Billing: Gas is billed monthly based on usage (measured in cubic meters).
  • Rates: Residential gas rates are approximately:
    • ~3.5 RMB per cubic meter.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Online via the Tongxiang Gas Company website or app.
    • Alipay or WeChat Pay.
    • At local banks or convenience stores.

Local Considerations

  • Gas safety is a priority. Ensure your property has a functioning gas detector.
  • Regular inspections may be conducted by the gas company to ensure safety compliance.

4. Internet Services in Wuzhen

Internet services in Wuzhen are reliable and widely available, with several providers offering high-speed broadband.

Major Internet Providers

  • China Telecom
  • China Unicom
  • China Mobile

Setting Up Internet Services

  • Who to Contact: Visit a local branch of your chosen provider or ask your landlord for assistance.
  • Procedure:
    1. Choose a provider and package (most offer bundled services with TV and mobile plans).
    2. Provide your passport, proof of residence, and a completed application form.
    3. Schedule an installation appointment (usually within 1-3 business days).
  • Connection Time: Installation typically takes 1-2 hours.

Costs

  • Monthly Fees: Internet packages range from 100-300 RMB per month, depending on speed (100 Mbps to 1 Gbps) and additional services.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Online via the providerโ€™s app or website.
    • Alipay or WeChat Pay.
    • At local branches of the provider.

Local Considerations

  • Internet censorship (the "Great Firewall") restricts access to certain websites (e.g., Google, Facebook, YouTube). Many residents and expatriates use VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to access blocked content.
  • Public Wi-Fi is available in many areas, but it may not be secure. Use a VPN for sensitive activities.

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Wuzhen

  1. Language Barrier: Most utility company staff may not speak English. Bring a Chinese-speaking friend or use a translation app to assist with communication.
  2. Mobile Payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most convenient ways to pay utility bills. Set up these apps as soon as possible after arriving in China.
  3. Landlord Assistance: If you are renting, your landlord will often handle utility setup and billing. Confirm the arrangement before moving in.
  4. Keep Receipts: Always keep receipts or screenshots of payments for reference.
  5. Emergency Numbers:
    • Electricity: 95598 (State Grid hotline)
    • Water: 0573-8811-2345 (Tongxiang Water Supply Company)
    • Gas: 0573-8811-5678 (Tongxiang Gas Company)

By following this guide, you should be able to set up and manage utilities in Wuzhen with ease. The townโ€™s blend of traditional charm and modern infrastructure ensures a comfortable living experience for both locals and newcomers.