Bordeaux

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Utilities and Services

Sections

1. Overview of Utilities in Bordeaux

The main utilities and services you’ll need to set up for housing in Bordeaux include:

  • Electricity
  • Gas
  • Water
  • Internet, TV, and Phone
  • Waste Collection

Each utility has its own setup process, service providers, and payment methods. Let’s break them down one by one.

2. Electricity

Main Service Providers

Electricity in France is deregulated, meaning you can choose from several providers. The two most common providers in Bordeaux are:

  • EDF (Électricité de France): The historical and largest electricity provider.
  • Engie: Offers both electricity and gas services.
  • Other alternative providers include TotalEnergies, Iberdrola, and Eni, which may offer competitive rates.

Setup Process

  1. Determine the current provider: If you’re moving into an existing property, ask the landlord or previous tenant for details about the current electricity provider.
  2. Contact the provider: Call or visit the provider’s website to set up a new contract. You’ll need:
    • Address of the property.
    • Meter reading (from the electricity meter).
    • Bank account details (for direct debit payments).
  3. Activation: Activation usually takes a few days. If the electricity is disconnected, an appointment with a technician may be required.

Average Costs

  • Monthly cost: €50–€100 for a small apartment (depending on usage and provider).
  • Tariffs: Most providers offer two types of tariffs:
    • Base Tariff: A flat rate per kWh.
    • Heures Creuses/Heures Pleines: Cheaper rates during off-peak hours (usually at night).

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit (most common).
  • Online payment via the provider’s website or app.
  • SEPA bank transfer.

Local Tips

  • Compare providers using websites like Selectra or Hello Watt to find the best deal.
  • Opt for the "Heures Creuses" tariff if you use electricity heavily during off-peak hours.

3. Gas

Main Service Providers

Gas is also deregulated in France, and the main providers in Bordeaux include:

  • Engie: The historical gas provider.
  • TotalEnergies, Eni, and other alternative providers.

Setup Process

  1. Check the existing connection: If the property already has a gas connection, contact the current provider to transfer or set up a new contract.
  2. Provide necessary details: Similar to electricity, you’ll need the address, meter reading, and bank details.
  3. Activation: If the gas is disconnected, a technician visit may be required to reopen the meter.

Average Costs

  • Monthly cost: €30–€80 for a small apartment (depending on usage and whether gas is used for heating, cooking, or hot water).
  • Tariffs: Fixed-rate or variable-rate contracts are available.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit.
  • Online payment or bank transfer.

Local Tips

  • If your property uses gas for heating, expect higher bills in winter.
  • Consider bundling electricity and gas with the same provider for potential discounts.

4. Water

Main Service Provider

Water services in Bordeaux are managed by Eau Bordeaux Métropole, the local water authority.

Setup Process

  1. Contact Eau Bordeaux Métropole: If you’re renting, the landlord may already have a water contract in place. Otherwise, you’ll need to set up your own account.
  2. Provide details: You’ll need the property address, move-in date, and bank details for billing.

Average Costs

  • Monthly cost: €15–€30 for a small apartment (based on consumption).
  • Water is billed based on usage (cubic meters) and includes wastewater treatment fees.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit.
  • Online payment via the Eau Bordeaux Métropole website.
  • Bank transfer.

Local Tips

  • Water meters are typically read once or twice a year. Estimated bills are sent in between readings, and adjustments are made after the actual reading.
  • Be mindful of water usage, as wastewater treatment fees can add up.

5. Internet, TV, and Phone

Main Service Providers

The main providers for internet, TV, and phone services in Bordeaux are:

  • Orange: The largest provider with extensive coverage.
  • SFR: Offers competitive packages.
  • Bouygues Telecom: Known for affordable plans.
  • Free: Popular for its low-cost internet and mobile plans.

Setup Process

  1. Check availability: Use the provider’s website to check if fiber-optic or ADSL is available at your address.
  2. Choose a package: Most providers offer bundled packages (internet, TV, and phone) starting at €20–€40 per month.
  3. Sign a contract: You’ll need proof of identity, address, and bank details.
  4. Installation: A technician may need to visit your property to install the internet box.

Average Costs

  • Monthly cost: €20–€50 for a standard internet package.
  • Fiber-optic plans are slightly more expensive but offer faster speeds.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit.
  • Online payment via the provider’s website.

Local Tips

  • Compare packages on websites like Ariase or MeilleurTaux to find the best deal.
  • Some providers offer discounts for new customers or when bundling mobile phone plans.

6. Waste Collection

Service Provider

Waste collection in Bordeaux is managed by Bordeaux Métropole.

Setup Process

  • Waste collection is typically included in your local taxes (taxe d’habitation or taxe foncière), so there’s no need to set up a separate account.

Local Tips

  • Bordeaux has a strong focus on recycling. Separate bins are provided for general waste, recyclables, and organic waste.
  • Check the collection schedule for your neighborhood on the Bordeaux Métropole website.

7. Payment Methods for All Utilities

The most common payment methods for utilities in Bordeaux are:

  • Direct debit: Highly recommended for convenience and to avoid missed payments.
  • Online payment: Most providers have user-friendly websites or apps for bill management.
  • Bank transfer: Less common but still an option.
  • Paper bills: Some providers still offer paper bills, but this may incur additional fees.

8. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Language barrier: Most utility providers operate in French, so having a basic understanding of the language or using translation tools can be helpful.
  • Energy efficiency: Many older buildings in Bordeaux may not be well-insulated, leading to higher heating costs in winter. Consider this when choosing a property.
  • Eco-friendly options: Bordeaux is an eco-conscious city. Look for providers offering green energy options (e.g., renewable electricity plans).
  • Keep documents handy: Always have proof of identity, address, and bank details ready when setting up utilities.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to manage utilities and services for your housing in Bordeaux. If you need further assistance or have specific questions, feel free to ask!