Dublin

1. Electricity

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

Main Providers

• Electric Ireland (default provider)
• Bord Gáis Energy
• SSE Airtricity
• Energia
• Panda Power
• PrepayPower (pay-as-you-go option)

Costs

• Average monthly cost: €50–€100, depending on usage and household size.
• Unit rates and standing charges vary by provider and plan.
• Discounts are often available for online billing or direct debit payments.

Setting Up

1. Contact a Provider: Choose a provider and contact them to set up an account. You can compare rates on websites like Bonkers.ie or Switcher.ie.
2. Provide Details:
   • Address of the property.
   • Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN), found on the meter or previous bills.
   • Personal details (name, phone number, email).
   • Bank details for direct debit (optional).
3. Meter Reading: Provide an initial meter reading to ensure accurate billing.

Timeline

• Setup is usually completed within 1–3 business days.

Tips

• Check if the previous tenant/owner has an active account. If so, you may need to transfer the account to your name.
• Consider fixed-rate plans to avoid price fluctuations.

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2. Gas

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

Main Providers

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

Costs

• Average monthly cost: €50–€120, depending on usage and household size.
• Unit rates and standing charges vary by provider and plan.

Setting Up

1. Contact a Provider: Choose a provider and set up an account. Use comparison websites like Bonkers.ie to find the best deal.
2. Provide Details:
   • Address of the property.
   • Gas Point Reference Number (GPRN), found on the meter or previous bills.
   • Personal details (name, phone number, email).
   • Bank details for direct debit (optional).
3. Meter Reading: Provide an initial meter reading.

Timeline

• Setup is usually completed within 1–3 business days.

Tips

• If your property uses a pay-as-you-go meter, you’ll need to top up at local shops or online.
• Dual fuel plans (electricity + gas) often offer discounts.

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3. Water

Water services in Dublin are managed by Irish Water, a national utility provider.

Main Provider

• Irish Water (www.water.ie)

Costs

• Currently, water charges for domestic use are covered by general taxation, so there are no direct bills for most households.
• Excessive water usage may incur charges (e.g., €3.70 per cubic meter over the allowance).

Setting Up

1. Contact Irish Water: If you’re moving into a new property, contact Irish Water to register your details.
2. Provide Details:
   • Address of the property.
   • Personal details (name, phone number, email).
   • Proof of residency (e.g., lease agreement or utility bill).

Timeline

• Registration is typically completed within a few days.

Tips

• Check with your landlord or property manager to confirm if water services are already registered.
• Monitor your water usage to avoid excessive charges.

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4. Internet

Dublin has a wide range of internet providers offering broadband, fiber, and mobile internet services.

Main Providers

• Virgin Media
• Eir
• Vodafone
• Sky Ireland
• Pure Telecom
• Digiweb

Costs

• Average monthly cost: €30–€70, depending on speed and package.
• Installation fees may apply (typically €50–€100).

Setting Up

1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans on websites like Bonkers.ie or Switcher.ie.
2. Contact the Provider: Provide your address and personal details.
3. Schedule Installation: An engineer may need to visit your property to install equipment.

Timeline

• Installation can take 1–2 weeks, depending on the provider and property type.

Tips

• Check if your property is fiber-ready for faster speeds.
• Bundle internet with TV or phone services for discounts.

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5. Waste Collection

Waste collection in Dublin is managed by private companies, and you must arrange for this service yourself.

Main Providers

• Panda Waste
• Greyhound Recycling
• City Bin Co.
• Thorntons Recycling

Costs

• Average monthly cost: €20–€40, depending on the provider and frequency of collection.
• Pay-per-lift or pay-per-weight options are common.
• Some providers charge an annual service fee.

Setting Up

1. Choose a Provider: Research providers in your area and contact them to set up an account.
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 (brown bin).

Timeline

• Bins are usually delivered within 1–2 weeks.

Tips

• Familiarize yourself with Dublin’s waste segregation rules (general waste, recycling, and compost).
• Check collection schedules to avoid missed pickups.

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General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Dublin

1. Documentation: Keep the following documents handy:
   • Proof of identity (passport or ID card).
   • Proof of address (lease agreement or utility bill).
   • Bank details for direct debit payments.
2. Comparison Websites: Use Bonkers.ie or Switcher.ie to compare utility providers and find the best deals.
3. Energy Efficiency: Dublin winters can be cold, so consider energy-efficient appliances and insulation to reduce costs.
4. Landlord Communication: If you’re renting, confirm with your landlord which utilities you’re responsible for and whether any are included in the rent.
5. Emergency Numbers:
   • Electricity outages: ESB Networks (1850 372 999).
   • Gas emergencies: Gas Networks Ireland (1800 20 50 50).

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up utilities in Dublin and settle into your new home with ease.