Connecting Utilities and Internet

Electricity and Gas

Providers - EDF: Historic provider, reliable - Engie: Major competitor - TotalEnergies, Eni: Alternatives - Compare on comparateur.energie-info.fr

Setting Up Service 1. Contact provider with address 2. Provide previous occupant's name 3. Schedule meter reading 4. Choose tariff plan 5. Set up monthly payments

Understanding Bills - Standing charges + consumption - Heures creuses (off-peak) options - Monthly payment spreads costs - Annual adjustment - Average €100-150/month apartment

Internet and Phone

Internet Providers - Orange: Best coverage, pricier - Free: Good value, quirky service - SFR: Middle ground - Bouygues: Competitive packages

Package Deals (Box) - Internet + TV + landline - Mobile often included - €30-45/month typical - Installation can take weeks - Fiber increasingly available

Mobile Plans - Free Mobile: From €2/month - Sosh (Orange subsidiary): €10-20 - RED by SFR: Competitive - B&You: Good coverage - Avoid contracts when possible

Getting Connected Quickly - Pocket WiFi rental - Prepaid SIM cards - Café WiFi (get code with purchase) - Library free internet - Co-working day passes

Other Utilities

Water - Usually included in charges - Individual meters rare - Quality excellent - Consumption reasonable

Heating - Gas, electric, or collective - Collective heating in charges - Individual can be expensive - Insulation varies widely

Waste Management - Sorted bins mandatory - Collection schedules vary - Bulk items need appointment - Recycling centers (déchetterie) free