Can Tho

1. Electricity

Provider: The primary electricity provider in Can Tho is the Vietnam Electricity (EVN).

Setting Up Service:

• Documents Required: To set up an electricity account, you typically need:
  • A valid ID (passport or Vietnamese ID)
  • Proof of residence (rental agreement or property ownership documents)
• Where to Apply: You can visit the local EVN office in Can Tho. The main office is located at:
  • Address: 1 Nguyen Van Cu Street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.
• Contact: You can call them at +84 292 3 823 823 for inquiries.

Costs:

• The average cost of electricity is around 1,800 to 2,500 VND per kWh, depending on usage.
• Monthly bills can vary widely based on consumption, but a typical household might expect to pay between 300,000 to 1,000,000 VND.

Payment Procedures:

• Bills can be paid at local EVN offices, banks, or via online banking services.
• Ensure to keep your bill number handy for online payments.

Local Considerations:

• Power outages can occur, especially during the rainy season. It’s advisable to have a backup power source (like a generator) if you rely heavily on electricity.

2. Water

Provider: The Can Tho Water Supply Company (Công ty TNHH MTV Cấp nước Cần Thơ) is responsible for water supply.

Setting Up Service:

• Documents Required: Similar to electricity, you will need:
  • A valid ID
  • Proof of residence
• Where to Apply: You can set up your water service at their office:
  • Address: 1 Le Loi Street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.
• Contact: Call +84 292 3 820 820 for assistance.

Costs:

• Water costs are generally around 6,000 to 10,000 VND per cubic meter, depending on the consumption tier.
• Monthly bills can range from 100,000 to 500,000 VND for an average household.

Payment Procedures:

• Payments can be made at the water company’s office, banks, or through online banking.
• Keep your account number for easy reference during payments.

Local Considerations:

• Tap water is generally not safe to drink directly. It’s advisable to use bottled water or boil tap water before consumption.

3. Waste Management

Provider: Waste management services in Can Tho are typically handled by the local government through the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

Setting Up Service:

• Waste collection is usually included in local taxes, so you may not need to set up a separate service.
• For specific inquiries, you can contact the local government office.

Costs:

• Waste management fees are often included in your property tax or local service fees, which can vary based on the size of your household and location.

Local Considerations:

• It’s common to separate waste into organic and non-organic materials. This practice is encouraged to promote recycling and proper waste disposal.
• Be mindful of local regulations regarding waste disposal, as improper disposal can lead to fines.

General Tips for New Residents

• Language: While Vietnamese is the primary language, some staff in utility offices may speak basic English. It’s helpful to learn a few key phrases in Vietnamese.
• Cultural Practices: Being polite and respectful in your interactions with service providers is important. A friendly demeanor can go a long way in facilitating communication.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including utility providers, local authorities, and your embassy or consulate.

Conclusion

Navigating public utilities in Can Tho is relatively straightforward once you understand the processes involved. Make sure to keep all your documents organized and be proactive in setting up your services. If you encounter any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to local offices for assistance. Enjoy your time in Can Tho!