Marseille

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Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity in Marseille

Electricity in Marseille is provided by several companies, with EDF (Électricité de France) being the main historical provider. However, since the energy market in France is deregulated, you can also choose from other providers like Engie, TotalEnergies, or smaller green energy companies such as Ilek or Planète Oui.

Setting Up Electricity

  • Step 1: Choose a provider. Compare rates and services on websites like Selectra or Hello Watt.
  • Step 2: Contact the provider to set up your account. You’ll need:
    • Your address.
    • The name of the previous tenant (if available).
    • The PDL number (Point de Livraison), which is the unique identifier for your electricity meter. This can be found on the previous tenant’s bill or by contacting the provider.
    • A meter reading (or request for a technician to take one if the property is vacant).
  • Step 3: Sign a contract and provide your bank details for automatic payments (common in France).

Costs

  • Fixed Costs: A monthly subscription fee (around €10–€20 depending on the provider and plan).
  • Variable Costs: Electricity usage is billed per kWh. The average cost is around €0.20–€0.25 per kWh.
  • Monthly Bill: For a small apartment, expect to pay around €50–€80 per month, depending on usage.

Local Tips

  • Many providers offer dual tariffs (peak and off-peak hours). If you use appliances like washing machines or dishwashers at night, this can save you money.
  • Consider green energy providers if you want to reduce your carbon footprint.

2. Water in Marseille

Water services in Marseille are managed by Eau de Marseille Métropole, the local water utility company.

Setting Up Water

  • Step 1: Contact Eau de Marseille Métropole to open an account. You’ll need:
    • Your address.
    • The name of the previous tenant (if available).
    • A meter reading.
  • Step 2: Sign a contract and set up payment (usually via direct debit).

Costs

  • Water is billed based on consumption, with an average cost of €3–€4 per cubic meter (1,000 liters).
  • For a small household, the monthly water bill is typically around €20–€40.

Local Tips

  • Water in Marseille is generally safe to drink, but it has a high mineral content (hard water). Consider using a water filter if you prefer softer water.
  • Be mindful of water usage, especially during the summer, as the region can experience droughts.

3. Gas in Marseille

Gas is used for heating, cooking, and hot water in many homes. The main provider is Engie, but other companies like TotalEnergies and Eni also operate in the market.

Setting Up Gas

  • Step 1: Choose a provider and contact them to set up your account. You’ll need:
    • Your address.
    • The name of the previous tenant (if available).
    • The PCE number (Point de Comptage et d’Estimation), which identifies your gas meter.
    • A meter reading.
  • Step 2: Sign a contract and provide your bank details for payment.

Costs

  • Fixed Costs: A monthly subscription fee (around €10–€20).
  • Variable Costs: Gas usage is billed per kWh, with an average cost of €0.07–€0.10 per kWh.
  • Monthly Bill: For a small apartment, expect to pay around €30–€60 per month, depending on usage.

Local Tips

  • If your home uses gas for heating, your bills will be higher in winter. Consider energy-saving measures like insulating windows and using programmable thermostats.

4. Waste Management in Marseille

Waste management in Marseille is handled by the Métropole Aix-Marseille-Provence. The city has a system for general waste, recycling, and composting.

How It Works

  • General Waste: Collected multiple times a week. Use the black bins provided by the city.
  • Recycling: Yellow bins are for recyclable materials like paper, cardboard, plastic, and metal. Collection schedules vary by neighborhood.
  • Glass: Glass must be taken to designated collection points (bottle banks) located throughout the city.
  • Composting: Some neighborhoods have composting programs. You can also compost at home if you have space.

Costs

  • Waste management is included in your taxe d’habitation (local residence tax), so there is no separate bill for this service.

Local Tips

  • Check the collection schedule for your neighborhood on the Métropole Aix-Marseille-Provence website.
  • Marseille has struggled with waste management issues in the past, so be mindful of properly sorting your waste to help the system function efficiently.

5. Internet and Telecommunications in Marseille

France has a well-developed internet and telecommunications infrastructure. Major providers include Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free.

Setting Up Internet

  • Step 1: Compare plans online. Websites like Ariase or MeilleurTaux can help you find the best deals.
  • Step 2: Contact the provider to set up your account. You’ll need:
    • Your address.
    • Bank details for payment.
  • Step 3: Schedule an installation appointment. A technician may need to visit your home to set up the connection.

Costs

  • Internet Plans: Prices range from €20–€40 per month for high-speed broadband (ADSL or fiber optic).
  • Bundled Plans: Many providers offer bundles that include internet, TV, and phone services for around €30–€50 per month.

Local Tips

  • Fiber optic internet is widely available in Marseille, but coverage may vary by neighborhood. Check availability with your provider.
  • Free public Wi-Fi is available in some areas of the city, such as libraries and public squares.

General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Marseille

  1. Bank Account: Most utility providers require a French bank account for direct debit payments. Open a local account as soon as possible.
  2. Language Barrier: Many customer service lines operate in French. If you’re not fluent, consider asking a French-speaking friend for help or using translation apps.
  3. Documents: Keep copies of your lease agreement and proof of identity handy, as these are often required when setting up services.
  4. Moving In: If you’re moving into a new or recently renovated property, you may need to schedule a technician visit to activate services like electricity, gas, or internet.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Marseille. Let me know if you need further assistance!