Nantes

💡

Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity

Main Provider:

  • The primary electricity provider in Nantes (and across France) is EDF (Électricité de France), though other providers like Engie, TotalEnergies, and Iberdrola also operate in the market.

Setting Up Electricity:

  • For Long-Term Residents:
    • You can set up an account online or by phone with your chosen provider. You’ll need:
      • Proof of identity (passport or residence permit).
      • Your new address.
      • The meter reading (referred to as the "relevé de compteur").
      • The Point of Delivery (POD) number, which identifies your electricity meter (usually provided by the landlord or previous tenant).
    • Contracts can often be set up within 24-48 hours.
  • For Short-Term Visitors:
    • If you’re renting a furnished apartment, electricity is often included in the rent. Confirm this with your landlord.

Costs:

  • Electricity in France is billed monthly or bi-monthly, with an average cost of €0.20–€0.25 per kWh.
  • A typical household in Nantes spends around €50–€100 per month, depending on usage and the size of the property.

Tips:

  • Consider opting for a "green energy" plan if you’re environmentally conscious. Many providers offer renewable energy options.
  • Use the Linky smart meter, which is standard in most homes, to monitor your consumption and avoid overuse.

2. Water

Main Provider:

  • Water services in Nantes are managed by Nantes Métropole, the local metropolitan authority.

Setting Up Water Service:

  • Water is typically included in the rental agreement for apartments. If not:
    • Contact Nantes Métropole’s water service department to open an account.
    • You’ll need proof of residence (rental contract or property deed) and identification.
    • The landlord or previous tenant should provide the water meter reading.

Costs:

  • Water is billed based on consumption, with an average cost of €3–€4 per cubic meter.
  • A typical household spends around €20–€40 per month.

Tips:

  • Nantes has high-quality tap water, so there’s no need to buy bottled water.
  • Check for leaks or dripping taps to avoid unnecessary charges.

3. Gas

Main Provider:

  • The main gas provider is Engie, though other companies like EDF and TotalEnergies also offer gas services.

Setting Up Gas Service:

  • Similar to electricity, you’ll need to contact a provider to set up an account. Required documents include:
    • Proof of identity.
    • Your address.
    • The meter reading (relevé de compteur).
    • The Point of Delivery (PCE) number for gas.
  • If your home uses gas for heating or cooking, ensure the service is activated before moving in.

Costs:

  • Gas costs around €0.07–€0.10 per kWh, with an average monthly bill of €50–€100, depending on usage and the season.

Tips:

  • If you’re renting, confirm whether the property uses gas for heating, as this can significantly impact your utility costs in winter.
  • Regularly service gas appliances to ensure safety and efficiency.

4. Waste Management

Service Provider:

  • Waste collection and recycling services are managed by Nantes Métropole.

How It Works:

  • Waste is separated into categories:
    • Household waste: Collected weekly.
    • Recyclables: Paper, cardboard, plastic, and metal are collected separately.
    • Glass: Drop-off points are available throughout the city.
    • Organic waste: Composting is encouraged, and some neighborhoods have dedicated bins.
  • You’ll receive a waste collection schedule from Nantes Métropole or your landlord.

Costs:

  • Waste management fees are included in the "taxe d’enlèvement des ordures ménagères" (TEOM), which is part of your property tax or rental charges.

Tips:

  • Familiarize yourself with the recycling guidelines to avoid fines.
  • Consider composting organic waste if your building or neighborhood supports it.

5. Internet and Telecommunications

Main Providers:

  • Major internet and telecom providers in Nantes include:
    • Orange (formerly France Télécom)
    • SFR
    • Bouygues Telecom
    • Free

Setting Up Internet:

  • Choose a provider and plan based on your needs (fiber-optic, ADSL, or mobile internet).
  • Required documents:
    • Proof of identity.
    • Proof of residence (rental contract or utility bill).
  • Installation can take 1–2 weeks, though some providers offer self-installation kits for faster setup.

Costs:

  • Internet plans start at €20–€40 per month for basic ADSL or fiber-optic connections.
  • Bundled packages (internet, TV, and phone) are available for €30–€60 per month.

Tips:

  • Check if your building is fiber-optic ready for faster internet speeds.
  • Compare providers for the best deals, as promotions are common.

6. Other Essential Services

Heating:

  • Many homes in Nantes use electric or gas heating. If your property has central heating, the cost is often included in the rent or building charges.

Public Transport:

  • While not a utility, Nantes has an excellent public transport system managed by TAN (Transports de l'Agglomération Nantaise). Monthly passes cost around €65.

Emergency Numbers:

  • Electricity/Gas Emergency: GRDF (gas) at 0 800 47 33 33, Enedis (electricity) at 09 72 67 50 XX (replace XX with your department number, e.g., 44 for Loire-Atlantique).
  • Water Emergency: Contact Nantes Métropole at 02 40 99 48 48.

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Nantes:

  1. Bank Account: Most utility providers require a French bank account for direct debit payments.
  2. Language Barrier: Many providers offer customer service in English, but having a basic understanding of French can be helpful.
  3. Eco-Friendly Options: Nantes is a green city, so consider energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy plans.
  4. Keep Records: Save all contracts, bills, and meter readings for reference.

By following these guidelines, you’ll find it easy to set up and manage utilities in Nantes, ensuring a smooth transition to life in this beautiful city. Let me know if you need further assistance!