Lyon

💡

Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity in Lyon

Electricity is a key utility in Lyon, and the French electricity market is deregulated, meaning you can choose from several providers.

Main Providers

  • EDF (Électricité de France): The historical and largest electricity provider in France.
  • Engie: Offers both electricity and gas services.
  • TotalEnergies: A popular alternative provider with competitive rates.
  • Other Providers: Companies like Eni, Vattenfall, and Mint Energie also operate in Lyon.

Average Costs

  • For a small apartment (1-2 people): €40–€60/month.
  • For a larger household (3-4 people): €80–€120/month.
  • Costs depend on your energy consumption, the size of your home, and whether you choose a standard or green energy plan.

How to Set It Up

  1. Choose a Provider: Compare rates and plans on websites like Selectra (https://selectra.info) or LeLynx.
  2. Contact the Provider: You can set up your account online or by phone. Be prepared to provide:
    • Your address.
    • The name of the previous tenant (if available).
    • The meter reading (referred to as "relevé de compteur").
    • Your bank details for direct debit (RIB - Relevé d'Identité Bancaire).
  3. Activation: Activation usually takes 1-5 business days. If the electricity is off, an Enedis technician may need to visit to reconnect it.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit (most common).
  • Online payment via the provider’s website or app.
  • Monthly or bi-monthly billing.

Local Tips

  • Consider opting for a "tarif heures pleines/heures creuses" (peak/off-peak tariff) if you use electricity during off-peak hours (e.g., at night).
  • Green energy plans are widely available and often competitively priced.

2. Water in Lyon

Water services in Lyon are managed by Eau du Grand Lyon, the public water utility.

Average Costs

  • Water is billed based on consumption, with an average cost of €3–€5 per cubic meter.
  • For a small household, expect to pay around €20–€40/month.

How to Set It Up

  1. Contact Eau du Grand Lyon:
  2. Provide Information:
    • Your address.
    • The meter reading (if applicable).
    • Your bank details for direct debit.
  3. Billing: Water is typically billed quarterly.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit.
  • Online payment via the Eau du Grand Lyon website.
  • Bank transfer or check.

Local Tips

  • Water quality in Lyon is excellent and safe to drink straight from the tap.
  • If you live in an apartment, water may already be included in your rent. Check with your landlord or property manager.

3. Gas in Lyon

Gas is commonly used for heating, hot water, and cooking in Lyon. Like electricity, the gas market is deregulated.

Main Providers

  • Engie: The historical gas provider in France.
  • TotalEnergies, Eni, and others: Offer competitive rates and combined electricity/gas packages.

Average Costs

  • For a small apartment: €30–€50/month.
  • For a larger household: €80–€150/month.
  • Costs vary depending on usage and the season (higher in winter).

How to Set It Up

  1. Choose a Provider: Compare rates and plans on comparison websites.
  2. Contact the Provider: Provide your address, meter reading, and bank details.
  3. Activation: GRDF (Gaz Réseau Distribution France) manages the gas network and may need to send a technician to activate your service.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit.
  • Online payment.
  • Monthly or bi-monthly billing.

Local Tips

  • If you’re renting, check whether gas is already included in your rental agreement.
  • Combined electricity and gas plans can save you money.

4. Internet, TV, and Phone in Lyon

France has a highly competitive telecom market, and Lyon is well-served by high-speed internet, including fiber-optic connections.

Main Providers

  • Orange: The largest provider, known for reliability.
  • SFR: Offers competitive packages, including fiber.
  • Bouygues Telecom: Affordable and widely available.
  • Free: Popular for its low-cost plans.

Average Costs

  • Internet-only plans: €20–€40/month.
  • Internet + TV + phone bundles: €30–€60/month.

How to Set It Up

  1. Check Availability: Use the provider’s website to check if fiber or ADSL is available at your address.
  2. Choose a Plan: Compare plans based on speed, price, and included services (e.g., TV channels, international calls).
  3. Sign Up: You can sign up online, in-store, or by phone. You’ll need:
    • Proof of identity.
    • Your address.
    • Bank details for direct debit.
  4. Installation: A technician may need to visit to install the equipment, especially for fiber connections.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit.
  • Online payment.
  • Monthly billing.

Local Tips

  • Free Wi-Fi is available in many public spaces in Lyon, including libraries and cafes.
  • If you’re staying short-term, consider a prepaid mobile internet plan.

5. Waste Management

Waste collection and recycling are managed by Métropole de Lyon.

How It Works

  • Household Waste: Collected weekly. Check your local schedule on the Métropole de Lyon website.
  • Recycling: Separate bins are provided for paper, plastic, and glass.
  • Bulky Items: You can schedule a pickup for large items like furniture.

Costs

  • Waste management fees are included in your local taxes (taxe d’habitation or taxe foncière).

Local Tips

  • Lyon is committed to sustainability, so recycling is strongly encouraged.
  • Look for local recycling points (points de collecte) for items like batteries and electronics.

6. General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Lyon

  • Bank Account: Most providers require a French bank account for direct debit payments. Open one as soon as possible.
  • Language Barrier: Many providers offer English-speaking customer service, but it’s helpful to know basic French phrases.
  • Comparison Websites: Use tools like Selectra or LeLynx to compare utility providers and find the best deals.
  • Energy Efficiency: Lyon has a strong focus on sustainability. Consider energy-efficient appliances and habits to reduce costs.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Lyon. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!