Bilbao

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Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity (Electricidad)

Providers:

  • The electricity market in Spain is liberalized, meaning you can choose from several providers. Major companies include:
    • Iberdrola (headquartered in Bilbao, one of the largest providers in Spain)
    • Endesa
    • Naturgy
    • Repsol
    • Holaluz (a green energy provider)
    • EDP

Costs:

  • Average monthly electricity bills range from €50 to €100, depending on the size of your home, usage, and the tariff plan.
  • Electricity is billed in two parts:
    • Fixed cost: Based on contracted power (potencia contratada), typically €30–€50/month.
    • Variable cost: Based on consumption, around €0.15–€0.20 per kWh.
  • Peak and off-peak hours (known as tarifa de discriminación horaria) can affect costs. Using electricity during off-peak hours (late night and early morning) is cheaper.

Setting Up:

  • If you’re renting, check with your landlord if the electricity is already set up. If not:
    1. Choose a provider and contact them.
    2. Provide your NIE (Foreigner Identification Number), proof of address, and bank account details.
    3. Decide on the contracted power (potencia contratada) based on your needs.
  • Activation fees may apply (around €50–€100).

Payment Methods:

  • Direct debit (most common and convenient).
  • Online payment through the provider’s website or app.
  • In-person at banks or authorized payment points.

Tips:

  • Compare tariffs on websites like Luz.es or Selectra to find the best deal.
  • Consider green energy plans if sustainability is important to you.

2. Water (Agua)

Provider:

  • Water services in Bilbao are managed by Consorcio de Aguas Bilbao Bizkaia (Bilbao Bizkaia Water Consortium).

Costs:

  • Average monthly water bills are around €20–€40, depending on usage.
  • Bills include a fixed fee for connection and a variable fee based on consumption (measured in cubic meters).

Setting Up:

  • Water is typically already connected in rental properties. If not:
    1. Contact the Bilbao Bizkaia Water Consortium.
    2. Provide your NIE, proof of address, and bank account details.
    3. Pay a connection fee (if applicable).

Payment Methods:

  • Direct debit is the most common.
  • Payments can also be made online or at banks.

Tips:

  • Water quality in Bilbao is excellent and safe to drink, so there’s no need to buy bottled water.
  • Be mindful of water usage, as excessive consumption can increase your bill.

3. Gas (Gas Natural)

Providers:

  • Like electricity, the gas market is liberalized. Major providers include:
    • Naturgy
    • Iberdrola
    • Repsol
    • Endesa

Costs:

  • Average monthly gas bills range from €30 to €80, depending on usage and the season (higher in winter due to heating).
  • Gas is billed based on a fixed fee and consumption (measured in kWh).

Setting Up:

  • If your home has a gas connection:
    1. Choose a provider and contact them.
    2. Provide your NIE, proof of address, and bank account details.
    3. Pay a connection fee (if applicable).
  • If there’s no gas connection, you may need to install one, which can be costly.

Payment Methods:

  • Direct debit is standard.
  • Online or in-person payments are also possible.

Tips:

  • Many homes in Bilbao use gas for heating and hot water. Ensure your boiler is serviced regularly for safety and efficiency.

4. Internet and Telecommunications (Internet y Telecomunicaciones)

Providers:

  • Major internet and telecom providers in Bilbao include:
    • Movistar
    • Vodafone
    • Orange
    • Yoigo
    • Euskaltel (a Basque company with strong local presence)

Costs:

  • Internet plans typically cost €30–€60/month, depending on speed and package.
  • Bundled plans (internet, TV, and mobile) are common and can cost €50–€100/month.

Setting Up:

  • Choose a provider and contact them.
  • Provide your NIE, proof of address, and bank account details.
  • Installation is usually free, but some providers may charge a setup fee (around €50–€100).

Payment Methods:

  • Direct debit is the most common.
  • Payments can also be made online or at authorized locations.

Tips:

  • Euskaltel is a good option for local service and customer support in Basque and Spanish.
  • Compare plans on websites like Kelisto or Roams to find the best deal.

5. Waste Management (Gestión de Residuos)

Provider:

  • Waste collection and management in Bilbao are handled by the Bilbao City Council (Ayuntamiento de Bilbao).

Costs:

  • Waste management fees are included in your municipal taxes (impuestos municipales), which are typically paid annually or semi-annually by property owners. If you’re renting, this cost is usually included in your rent.

Waste Disposal System:

  • Bilbao has a well-organized waste disposal system with color-coded bins:
    • Yellow: Plastic containers, cans, and cartons.
    • Blue: Paper and cardboard.
    • Green: Glass.
    • Brown: Organic waste.
    • Grey: General waste.
  • Recycling is strongly encouraged, and fines may apply for improper disposal.

Tips:

  • Familiarize yourself with the waste collection schedule in your neighborhood.
  • Use the Bilbao City Council app or website for information on recycling points and bulky waste collection.

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Bilbao:

  1. Language: Most utility providers offer customer service in Spanish, and some (like Euskaltel) also provide support in Basque. English support may be limited.
  2. Documentation: Always have your NIE, proof of address (e.g., rental contract), and bank account details ready when setting up utilities.
  3. Energy Efficiency: To save on electricity and gas, consider energy-efficient appliances and use heating and cooling systems sparingly.
  4. Online Management: Most providers have user-friendly apps or websites where you can manage your account, monitor usage, and pay bills.
  5. Local Assistance: If you’re struggling with setting up utilities, ask your landlord, neighbors, or relocation services for help.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to manage utilities in Bilbao efficiently and effectively. Let me know if you need further assistance!