Valencia

💡

Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity (Electricidad)

Main Providers

  • Iberdrola: The largest electricity provider in Valencia and across Spain. They offer both regulated (PVPC) and free-market tariffs.
  • Endesa: Another major provider with competitive rates and renewable energy options.
  • Naturgy: Offers electricity and gas bundles.
  • Repsol: Known for flexible plans and renewable energy options.

Costs

  • Electricity costs in Spain are among the highest in Europe, with prices fluctuating based on the time of day (peak, flat, and off-peak hours).
    • Average monthly cost: €50–€100 for a small apartment, depending on usage.
    • Tariffs: Regulated tariffs (PVPC) are tied to hourly market prices, while free-market tariffs offer fixed or customized rates.

How to Set Up

  1. Documentation Needed:
    • NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) or DNI (Spanish ID).
    • Proof of address (rental contract or property deed).
    • Bank account details for direct debit payments.
    • CUPS number (unique supply point code, found on the previous tenant's bill or provided by the landlord).
  2. Process:
    • Contact the provider of your choice via their website, phone, or in-person office.
    • Choose a tariff plan and provide the required documentation.
    • Activation typically takes 1–7 business days.

Payment Methods

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

Local Tips

  • Consider installing energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting to reduce costs.
  • Use electricity during off-peak hours (e.g., late at night or early morning) to save money if you’re on a time-of-use tariff.

2. Water (Agua)

Main Provider

  • EMIVASA (Aguas de Valencia): The primary water supplier in Valencia, responsible for water distribution and billing.

Costs

  • Water is relatively affordable in Valencia.
    • Average monthly cost: €20–€40 for a small household.
    • Bills include a fixed fee, a variable fee based on consumption, and a wastewater treatment charge.

How to Set Up

  1. Documentation Needed:
    • NIE or DNI.
    • Proof of address.
    • Bank account details for direct debit.
  2. Process:
    • Contact EMIVASA via their website, phone, or in-person office.
    • Provide the required documents and sign a contract.
    • Service activation usually takes 1–3 business days.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit (preferred).
  • Online payment through the EMIVASA website or app.
  • Payment at banks or authorized locations.

Local Tips

  • Tap water in Valencia is safe to drink, but many locals prefer bottled water due to its taste (caused by high mineral content).
  • Monitor your water usage to avoid unexpected high bills, especially during the summer.

3. Gas (Gas Natural)

Main Providers

  • Naturgy: A leading provider offering natural gas and electricity bundles.
  • Iberdrola: Offers gas services alongside electricity.
  • Repsol: Known for flexible gas plans.

Costs

  • Gas is used primarily for heating, hot water, and cooking.
    • Average monthly cost: €30–€60, depending on usage and season.
    • Tariffs: Fixed or variable rates, with some providers offering discounts for bundled services.

How to Set Up

  1. Documentation Needed:
    • NIE or DNI.
    • Proof of address.
    • Bank account details.
    • CUPS number for gas (found on the previous tenant’s bill or provided by the landlord).
  2. Process:
    • Contact the provider of your choice.
    • Provide the required documents and choose a tariff plan.
    • Activation can take 5–10 business days.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit.
  • Online payment through the provider’s website or app.
  • Payment at banks or authorized locations.

Local Tips

  • If your property doesn’t have a gas connection, you may need to use bottled gas (butano) for heating or cooking. Bottled gas is widely available at supermarkets and gas stations.

4. Internet and Telecommunications

Main Providers

  • Movistar: Offers fiber-optic internet, mobile, and TV bundles.
  • Vodafone: Known for competitive pricing and international packages.
  • Orange: Offers high-speed internet and mobile plans.
  • MásMóvil: A budget-friendly option with good coverage.
  • Yoigo: Popular for affordable internet and mobile bundles.

Costs

  • Internet plans typically include fiber-optic connections with speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps.
    • Average monthly cost: €30–€60, depending on speed and additional services (e.g., TV or mobile).
    • Installation fees: Often waived during promotions.

How to Set Up

  1. Documentation Needed:
    • NIE or DNI.
    • Proof of address.
    • Bank account details.
  2. Process:
    • Compare providers and choose a plan that suits your needs.
    • Contact the provider to schedule installation.
    • Installation usually takes 1–2 weeks.

Payment Methods

  • Direct debit.
  • Online payment through the provider’s website or app.

Local Tips

  • Check for promotional offers, especially for new customers.
  • If you’re renting, confirm with your landlord whether the property already has an internet connection.

5. Waste Management (Gestión de Residuos)

Service Provider

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

Costs

  • Waste management fees are included in your annual property tax (IBI) or paid as part of your rental agreement.
    • Average annual cost: €50–€150, depending on the property size and location.

How It Works

  • Valencia has a well-organized waste collection system with separate bins for:
    • Yellow: Plastic and cans.
    • Blue: Paper and cardboard.
    • Green: Glass.
    • Grey: General waste.
    • Brown: Organic waste (in some areas).
  • Collection schedules vary by neighborhood, but bins are emptied regularly.

Local Tips

  • Recycling is strongly encouraged, and fines may be imposed for improper waste disposal.
  • Look for designated collection points for large items (e.g., furniture or appliances) or contact the city council for pickup services.

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Valencia

  1. Language: Most utility providers offer customer service in Spanish, but some have English-speaking agents. If you’re not fluent, consider asking a local friend or using translation tools.
  2. Bundling Services: Many providers offer discounts for bundling electricity, gas, and internet services.
  3. Energy Efficiency: Valencia’s warm climate means you’ll likely use air conditioning in summer. Opt for energy-efficient appliances to save on electricity.
  4. Keep Records: Save copies of all contracts and bills for reference.
  5. Customer Support: Providers often have apps or online portals where you can manage your account, view bills, and make payments.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage utilities in Valencia, ensuring a smooth transition to life in this beautiful city!