Bilbao

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Utilities and Bills

Sections

1. Categories of Utilities in Bilbao

In Bilbao, as in most Spanish cities, the main utility categories include:

  • Electricity (Electricidad)
  • Water (Agua)
  • Gas (Gas)
  • Internet and Phone (Internet y Teléfono)
  • Trash Collection (Basura)

2. Average Costs of Utilities

The cost of utilities in Bilbao can vary depending on the size of your household, your consumption habits, and the providers you choose. Below are the typical monthly costs for a standard apartment (2-3 people):

Electricity

  • Average Cost: €50–€100 per month.
  • Electricity prices in Spain are among the highest in Europe due to taxes and reliance on imported energy. Costs can fluctuate based on usage and whether you have a fixed or variable tariff.
  • Tip: Many providers offer "time-of-use" tariffs (tarifas con discriminación horaria), which charge lower rates during off-peak hours (e.g., late at night).

Water

  • Average Cost: €20–€40 per month.
  • Water is relatively affordable in Bilbao. The city has a well-maintained water supply system, and the water is safe to drink.
  • Tip: Water bills are often included in the community fees (gastos de comunidad) if you live in an apartment building.

Gas

  • Average Cost: €30–€70 per month.
  • Gas is commonly used for heating, hot water, and cooking. Costs increase during the winter months due to heating needs.
  • Tip: If your apartment has central heating, the cost may be included in your community fees.

Internet and Phone

  • Average Cost: €40–€70 per month for a package including high-speed internet (fiber optic) and a mobile phone plan.
  • Major providers include Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, and MásMóvil. Fiber optic internet is widely available in Bilbao, offering speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
  • Tip: Many providers offer bundled packages that include internet, mobile, and TV services, which can save you money.

Trash Collection

  • Average Cost: €10–€20 per month.
  • Trash collection fees are usually included in your municipal taxes (impuestos municipales) or community fees.

3. How to Set Up Utilities in Bilbao

Setting up utilities in Bilbao is straightforward but may require some Spanish language skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide for each utility:

Electricity and Gas

  1. Choose a Provider: Popular providers include Iberdrola, Endesa, Naturgy, and Repsol. Compare tariffs online to find the best deal.
  2. Provide Documentation:
    • NIE (Número de Identidad de Extranjero) or DNI (for Spanish citizens).
    • Proof of address (rental contract or property deed).
    • Bank account details for direct debit payments.
    • CUPS (Código Universal de Punto de Suministro), a unique code for your property’s electricity/gas connection.
  3. Sign a Contract: You can do this online, over the phone, or in person at the provider’s office.
  4. Connection Time: It may take 1–7 days to activate the service.

Water

  1. Contact the Local Water Company: In Bilbao, water services are managed by Consorcio de Aguas Bilbao Bizkaia.
  2. Provide Documentation:
    • NIE/DNI.
    • Proof of address.
    • Bank account details.
  3. Connection Time: Water services are usually activated within 1–3 days.

Internet and Phone

  1. Choose a Provider: Major providers include Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, and MásMóvil. Use comparison websites like Rastreator or Kelisto to find the best deal.
  2. Provide Documentation:
    • NIE/DNI.
    • Proof of address.
    • Bank account details.
  3. Installation: Fiber optic installation is usually free and takes 1–2 weeks. Some providers may charge a small activation fee.

Trash Collection

  • Trash collection is managed by the local municipality. You don’t need to set this up separately, as it’s included in your municipal taxes or community fees.

4. Payment Procedures

Most utility bills in Bilbao are paid via direct debit (domiciliación bancaria) from a Spanish bank account. Here’s how it works:

  1. Provide your bank account details when signing up for a service.
  2. Bills are automatically deducted each month, and you’ll receive an invoice via email or post.
  3. You can also pay manually through:
    • Online banking.
    • At the provider’s office.
    • At ATMs or local banks.

5. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Language Barrier: Most utility providers operate in Spanish, so it’s helpful to know basic Spanish phrases or have a Spanish-speaking friend assist you.
  • Community Fees: If you’re renting an apartment, check if utilities like water, trash collection, or central heating are included in your community fees.
  • Energy-Saving Tips: Electricity and gas can be expensive, so consider energy-saving measures like using energy-efficient appliances and taking advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
  • Internet Contracts: Many internet providers require a 12-month contract. If you plan to stay short-term, look for providers offering no-commitment plans.
  • Recycling: Bilbao has an excellent recycling system. Familiarize yourself with the color-coded bins:
    • Yellow: Plastics and cans.
    • Blue: Paper and cardboard.
    • Green: Glass.
    • Brown: Organic waste.
    • Grey: General waste.

6. Emergency Contacts for Utilities

  • Electricity/Gas Emergencies: Contact your provider’s emergency hotline (listed on your bill).
  • Water Issues: Call Consorcio de Aguas Bilbao Bizkaia at 944 240 811.
  • Internet/Phone Issues: Contact your provider’s customer service line.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to manage your utilities and bills in Bilbao. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!