Madrid

💡

Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity (Electricidad)

Main Providers

  • Iberdrola: One of the largest electricity providers in Spain, offering both regulated and free-market tariffs.
  • Endesa: Another major provider with competitive pricing and renewable energy options.
  • Naturgy: Offers combined electricity and gas services.
  • Repsol: A newer player in the electricity market, focusing on renewable energy.
  • Holaluz: A smaller, eco-friendly provider specializing in green energy.

Average Costs

  • Electricity costs in Madrid are typically billed monthly or bimonthly. The average cost for a small apartment is around €50–€80 per month, depending on usage and the tariff plan.
  • Spain uses a time-of-use tariff system (tarifa de discriminación horaria), where electricity is cheaper during off-peak hours (usually at night and weekends). Choosing this option can help reduce costs.

How to Set It Up

  1. Choose a Provider: Compare tariffs and services on websites like Selectra or Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC).
  2. Provide Documentation:
    • NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) or DNI (Spanish ID).
    • 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 electricity connection (provided by the previous tenant or landlord).
  3. Sign a Contract: You can do this online, over the phone, or in person at the provider’s office.
  4. Meter Reading: Ensure the meter is functioning and take an initial reading to avoid being overcharged.

Local Regulations

  • Spain has a regulated electricity market (PVPC) and a free market. The PVPC (Precio Voluntario para el Pequeño Consumidor) is government-regulated and may be cheaper for low-consumption households.
  • Renewable energy is highly encouraged, and some providers offer discounts for green energy plans.

Tips

  • Monitor your usage through the provider’s app or website.
  • Be mindful of peak and off-peak hours to save on costs.
  • If you’re renting, check with your landlord to confirm the current provider and tariff.

2. Water (Agua)

Main Provider

  • Canal de Isabel II: The sole water provider in Madrid, responsible for water supply, sewage, and wastewater treatment.

Average Costs

  • Water bills are issued every two months. The average cost for a small household is around €20–€40 per month, depending on usage.
  • Bills include a fixed fee for connection and a variable fee based on consumption.

How to Set It Up

  1. Contact Canal de Isabel II: You can set up your water service by visiting their website or calling their customer service.
  2. Provide Documentation:
    • NIE or DNI.
    • Proof of address.
    • Bank account details for direct debit.
  3. Meter Reading: Ensure the water meter is functioning and take an initial reading.

Local Regulations

  • Water quality in Madrid is excellent and safe to drink, so there’s no need to buy bottled water.
  • Water conservation is encouraged, especially during the summer months.

Tips

  • Check for leaks or dripping taps to avoid high bills.
  • Use water-efficient appliances to reduce consumption.

3. Gas (Gas Natural)

Main Providers

  • Naturgy: A leading provider of natural gas in Spain.
  • Iberdrola: Offers combined electricity and gas plans.
  • Endesa: Provides competitive gas tariffs.
  • Repsol: Offers gas services alongside electricity.

Average Costs

  • Gas is billed monthly or bimonthly. The average cost for a small apartment is around €30–€60 per month, depending on usage (heating, cooking, hot water).
  • Costs are higher in winter due to heating.

How to Set It Up

  1. Choose a Provider: Compare tariffs and services.
  2. Provide Documentation:
    • NIE or DNI.
    • Proof of address.
    • Bank account details.
    • CUPS code for gas (provided by the previous tenant or landlord).
  3. Sign a Contract: This can be done online, over the phone, or in person.
  4. Inspection: A technician may need to inspect your gas installation before activation.

Local Regulations

  • Gas installations must be inspected every 4–5 years. The provider will notify you when an inspection is due, and the cost (around €50–€60) will be added to your bill.

Tips

  • If you’re renting, confirm with your landlord whether the property uses natural gas or electric heating.
  • Use a carbon monoxide detector for safety.

4. Internet and Telecommunications

Main Providers

  • Movistar: The largest provider, offering fiber-optic internet, TV, and mobile services.
  • Vodafone: Offers competitive internet and mobile packages.
  • Orange: Provides fiber-optic internet and mobile services.
  • MásMóvil: A budget-friendly option with good coverage.
  • Yoigo: A subsidiary of MásMóvil, offering affordable plans.

Average Costs

  • Internet plans typically cost €30–€50 per month for fiber-optic connections (100–600 Mbps).
  • Bundled packages (internet, TV, and mobile) cost around €50–€80 per month.

How to Set It Up

  1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans on websites like Kelisto or Selectra.
  2. Provide Documentation:
    • NIE or DNI.
    • Proof of address.
    • Bank account details.
  3. Installation: A technician will install the router and set up the connection. Installation is usually free with a 12-month contract.

Local Regulations

  • Contracts typically have a 12-month minimum commitment. Early termination may incur fees.
  • Internet speeds are generally reliable in Madrid, especially with fiber-optic connections.

Tips

  • Check for promotions or discounts for new customers.
  • If you’re renting, confirm with your landlord whether internet is already installed.

5. Other Utilities

Trash Collection (Basura)

  • Trash collection is managed by the Madrid City Council and is included in your property taxes (IBI). Tenants usually don’t pay this directly.

Heating and Air Conditioning

  • Many apartments in Madrid use central heating (calefacción central) or individual gas/electric heaters.
  • Air conditioning is less common but can be essential during the summer.

Practical Tips for Managing Utilities in Madrid

  1. Understand Your Bills: Utility bills in Spain can be complex. They include fixed charges, taxes, and variable charges based on usage. Providers often offer online tools to help you track and understand your consumption.
  2. Direct Debit Payments: Most utility providers require payments via direct debit from a Spanish bank account. Ensure your account is set up before signing contracts.
  3. Energy Efficiency: Madrid’s climate can be extreme (hot summers, cold winters). Use energy-efficient appliances and insulation to reduce costs.
  4. Customer Service: Most providers offer customer service in Spanish, but some (like Iberdrola and Endesa) may have English-speaking agents.
  5. Emergency Numbers:
    • Electricity: Contact your provider or the emergency number on your bill.
    • Gas: Call the gas emergency service (900 750 750) if you smell gas.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Madrid. Let me know if you need further assistance!