Setting up utilities in Portugal: water, gas, and electricity

In Portugal, you can choose your electricity and gas provider (main options: EDP, Gold Energy, LUZiGAS) but cannot choose your water provider, which is managed by local municipalities. You'll need your NIF number, proof of identity, Portuguese bank account, and proof of address to set up utilities. Portugal uses 220V AC, 50Hz power with Type C/F two-pin plugs. Water is safe to drink from the tap in most built-up areas.

Making sure you're connected to the local utilities may be one of the first things you do during your first week in Portugal. Indeed, your new house will soon start feeling like home once you've set up water, gas, and electricity. The Portuguese utility market is liberalized, meaning you can choose your electricity and gas provider. Explore our expat community directory for more resources on settling in Portugal.

Getting Connected in a New Home

Buying a Property

• No existing connection: Contact the network distributor (process can take weeks, especially in rural areas)
• Existing connection: Contact the energy provider to set up an account in your name (much quicker process)

Renting a Property

• Monthly rental costs may or may not include utilities - check before signing
• If not included, you can choose the provider or keep existing connections
• Serviced apartments typically include utilities for short-term leases

Electricity and Gas in Portugal

Energy Costs

Energy costs in Portugal can be quite high compared to other European countries, largely due to high taxes. Costs can spike during hot or cold periods as many Portuguese homes lack centralized heating and cooling systems.

Major Energy Suppliers

• EDP: Former state operator, still the 'default supplier' for many households
• Gold Energy
• LUZiGAS
• Simples Energy

Gas Availability

Gas is not as common in Portugal as in other European countries. Many households don't have a connection to the mains gas network, especially in rural areas and island communities. Alternatives include:

• Bottled gas (botijas): Available at fuel stations and supermarkets (deposit required for first bottle)
• Outdoor tanks (contentores de gas): For larger properties
• Delivery services available throughout the country

Green Energy Options

Portugal has invested heavily in renewable energy production. In Q1 2021, wind and hydro accounted for over 70% of all energy produced.

• Most Portuguese energy providers offer green tariffs from renewable sources
• Some suppliers offer exclusively green energy
• Solar panels are increasingly popular as installation costs decrease

How to Connect Your Energy Supply

Required Documents

• Proof of identity (passport or ID card)
• Your NIF number
• Details of your Portuguese bank account
• Proof of address

Connection Process

1. Choose your supplier and tariff
2. Sign up online, by phone, or at retail outlets
3. Provide required documentation
4. For new connections, contact local distributor (can take several weeks)
5. For existing connections, transfer contract to your name
6. Always take note of meter readings when moving in

Paying Energy Bills

• Payment typically made via automatic collection from bank account
• Alternative: Pay at nearest Multibanco ATM
• Payment intervals: Usually monthly
• Most suppliers provide annual statements

Changing Energy Supplier

You can easily change your provider in Portugal. If your contract has a minimum term limit, you'll need to pay a fee. If there's no minimum term, you can change providers with no fuss.

The new provider will contact your previous supplier and manage the switchover process. You'll maintain constant supply during the transition.

Portuguese Voltage and Power Supply

• Voltage: 220 volts AC (some old areas may have 110V)
• Frequency: 50 hertz
• Socket types: Type C and Type F (two-pin plugs)
• Portuguese homes typically have fewer power points than other countries - buy multi-socket extensions

Water Supply in Portugal

How Water Works

Water is administered at a local level under municipal jurisdiction. You cannot choose your provider - it depends on where you live.

Examples:

• Lisbon area: Aguas de Lisboa e Vale do Tejo (supplies 3.8 million people across 86 municipalities)
• Algarve: Aguas do Algarve (supplies 450,000 people)

Setting Up Water Service

1. Contact your local town hall for supplier information
2. Contact supplier directly to set up account
3. Provide: proof of identity, NIF number, Portuguese bank account details, proof of address

Paying Water Bills

• Bills paid bi-monthly
• Payment methods: Direct debit or Multibanco ATMs
• Fixed metered amount plus extra for usage exceeding the limit
• Bills estimated bi-monthly, adjusted when meter reading provided

Water Saving Tips

Buy water savers that mix air with water on taps. You can save the cost of fitting an apartment with water savers in just six months through lower bills.

Can You Drink Tap Water in Portugal?

Yes, generally safe. Portugal conforms to EU standards and you should be able to drink straight from the tap in built-up areas. Use caution in rural areas without mains water connection. If you don't like the taste, consider buying a tap filter - much cheaper and more sustainable than bottled water.

Water Restrictions

Southern parts of Portugal regularly suffer from drought. During these times, local authorities restrict water consumption, including limiting use for gardens or washing cars.

Power Cuts

While uncommon, power cuts do occasionally happen. Keep candles or battery-operated lights on hand. If power goes out:

1. Check if neighbors have power
2. Check fuse box for tripped/blown fuses
3. Contact energy supplier or professional electrician if needed

Making Complaints

• Energy complaints: Contact provider first, then Entidade Reguladora dos Serviços Energéticos (ERSE)
• Water complaints: Visit Citizens' shop (Loja do Cidadao) or check Aguas de Portugal website

Comparison Websites

• Comparaja
• PoupaEnergia