Drogheda

1. Electricity

Electricity is an essential utility, and Ireland has a deregulated energy market, meaning you can choose from several providers.

Local Providers

• Electric Ireland (default provider in many areas)
• Bord Gáis Energy
• SSE Airtricity
• Energia
• Flogas
• PrepayPower (pay-as-you-go option)

Costs

• Average monthly electricity bill: €100–€150 (depending on usage and household size).
• Unit rates and standing charges vary by provider and plan.
• Some providers offer discounts for online billing or dual fuel (electricity + gas) packages.

How to Set Up

1. Contact a Provider: Choose a provider and call their customer service or sign up online.
2. Provide Details:
   • Address of the property.
   • Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN) – found on the electricity meter or previous bills.
   • Personal details (name, phone number, email).
   • Bank account details for direct debit (optional but recommended).
3. Choose a Plan: Providers offer fixed-rate, variable-rate, or pay-as-you-go plans.
4. Meter Reading: Take a meter reading on the day you move in to avoid being charged for the previous tenant’s usage.

Payment Methods

• Direct debit (most common and convenient).
• Online payment via provider’s website or app.
• Pay-as-you-go (via top-up cards or apps).

Tips

• Use comparison websites like Bonkers.ie or Switcher.ie to find the best deal.
• Ask about discounts for new customers or dual fuel packages.

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2. Gas

Gas is used for heating and cooking in many homes in Drogheda. Like electricity, the gas market is deregulated.

Local Providers

• Bord Gáis Energy (largest provider)
• SSE Airtricity
• Energia
• Flogas
• PrepayPower (pay-as-you-go option)

Costs

• Average monthly gas bill: €80–€120 (depending on usage and household size).
• Costs include a standing charge and unit rate.

How to Set Up

1. Contact a Provider: Choose a provider and sign up online or by phone.
2. Provide Details:
   • Address of the property.
   • Gas Point Reference Number (GPRN) – found on the gas meter or previous bills.
   • Personal details and bank account information (if setting up direct debit).
3. Meter Reading: Take a reading on the day you move in.

Payment Methods

• Direct debit.
• Online payment.
• Pay-as-you-go.

Tips

• Consider bundling gas and electricity with the same provider for discounts.
• Use comparison websites to find the best rates.

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3. Water

In Ireland, water services are managed by Irish Water, a state-owned utility.

Costs

• Water charges for domestic use are currently suspended in Ireland. However, excessive usage may incur charges (e.g., leaks or very high consumption).

How to Set Up

1. Contact Irish Water:
   • Call their customer service or register online at www.water.ie.
2. Provide Details:
   • Address of the property.
   • Personal details (name, phone number, email).
   • Proof of residency (e.g., lease agreement or utility bill).
3. Meter Reading: If the property has a water meter, take a reading.

Payment Methods

• No regular payments unless excessive usage charges apply.

Tips

• Check for leaks in the property to avoid excessive usage charges.
• Ensure the landlord has registered the property with Irish Water if you’re renting.

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4. Internet and TV

Drogheda has several internet and TV providers offering a range of packages.

Local Providers

• Virgin Media (high-speed broadband and TV bundles).
• Eir (broadband, TV, and phone bundles).
• Sky Ireland (TV and broadband).
• Vodafone Ireland (broadband and phone).
• Pure Telecom (broadband).

Costs

• Broadband-only plans: €30–€60 per month.
• Broadband + TV bundles: €60–€100 per month.
• Installation fees may apply (usually €50–€100).

How to Set Up

1. Check Availability: Use the provider’s website to check if their service is available at your address.
2. Choose a Plan: Decide on broadband speed, data limits, and whether you want a TV bundle.
3. Provide Details:
   • Address of the property.
   • Personal details (name, phone number, email).
   • Bank account details for direct debit.
4. Schedule Installation: Most providers will send a technician to install the service.

Payment Methods

• Direct debit.
• Online payment.

Tips

• Compare providers on Bonkers.ie to find the best deal.
• Look for introductory offers for new customers.

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5. Waste Management

Waste collection in Drogheda is managed by private companies. You must arrange for waste collection services yourself.

Local Providers

• Panda Waste
• Greyhound Recycling
• Oxigen Environmental
• City Bin Co.

Costs

• Pay-per-lift or pay-per-weight systems are common.
• Average monthly cost: €20–€40.
• Some providers charge an annual service fee.

How to Set Up

1. Contact a Provider: Choose a waste collection company and sign up online or by phone.
2. Provide Details:
   • Address of the property.
   • Personal details (name, phone number, email).
3. Bin Delivery: The provider will deliver bins for general waste, recycling, and compost (if applicable).

Payment Methods

• Direct debit.
• Online payment.
• Prepaid tags or stickers for occasional use.

Tips

• Familiarize yourself with Ireland’s waste segregation rules (general waste, recycling, and compost).
• Check if your landlord has an existing waste collection arrangement.

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General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Drogheda

1. Have Documentation Ready: Most providers require proof of address (e.g., lease agreement) and personal identification.
2. Use Comparison Websites: Websites like Bonkers.ie and Switcher.ie are invaluable for comparing utility providers and finding the best deals.
3. Set Up Direct Debit: This is the most convenient payment method and often comes with discounts.
4. Check Existing Services: If you’re renting, ask the landlord or previous tenant about existing utility arrangements.
5. Monitor Usage: Use smart meters or apps provided by utility companies to track your usage and avoid high bills.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to set up utilities in Drogheda efficiently and enjoy a smooth transition to your new home.