Moving to Ireland is an exciting new chapter. Whether you’re settling in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, or a rural town, getting your utilities in place is one of the first steps to making your home comfortable and functional.

This guide explains how to set up and manage:

• Electricity and Gas

• Water

• Internet and Mobile Services

It also covers key providers, average monthly costs, and useful tips for expats and new residents.

Electricity and Gas

Electricity and gas in Ireland are fully deregulated markets, meaning you can choose your own provider. The national grid operators maintain infrastructure and delivery, while private companies handle billing and pricing.

When you move into your new home, check whether utilities are still active. If not, you’ll need to open a new account and provide your MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number) for electricity or GPRN (Gas Point Reference Number) for gas, which can be found on the meter or a previous bill.

Documents required:

• Proof of identity (passport or Irish ID)

• Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)

• Bank details for direct debit

• Meter reading (on move-in date)

Main electricity and gas providers:

• Electric Ireland (largest and state-owned)

• Bord Gáis Energy

• SSE Airtricity

• Energia

• Panda Power

• PrePayPower (prepaid option)

Average monthly costs:

• Gas: €70–€120/month (higher during winter)

• Electricity: €80–€130/month

Tips:

• Use comparison tools such as www.bonkers.ie or www.switcher.ie to find the best energy deals.

• Dual-fuel plans (electricity + gas) are usually cheaper than separate contracts.

• Meter readings are taken regularly, but it’s wise to submit your own when you move in.

• Many homes use storage heaters (electric night-rate heating), so consider off-peak tariffs to save money.

Water

In Ireland, domestic water and wastewater services are provided by Uisce Éireann (formerly Irish Water), a national utility company.

For most residents, domestic water is currently free, though metering and usage-based charges may apply in the future if consumption exceeds allowances. If you own your home or are renting long-term, you should still register your address to ensure billing and correspondence are properly recorded.

Documents required:

• Proof of address (lease, deed, or PPS number)

• Proof of identity (passport or ID)

• Contact information (email, phone number)

Average costs:

• Domestic users: no fixed monthly charge for normal household use

• Non-domestic or high-use households: variable, based on meter readings

Tips:

• Most apartments and houses already have active water connections; you rarely need to arrange setup yourself.

• Water is safe to drink across Ireland, though taste can vary regionally.

• Contact Uisce Éireann directly if you experience leaks, pressure loss, or quality issues.

Internet and Mobile Services

Ireland has extensive broadband and mobile coverage, especially in cities and towns. Fiber (“fibre”) broadband is expanding rapidly, but rural areas may still rely on DSL or mobile broadband.

You can choose from a range of providers, many offering bundles that include TV, mobile, and landline services.

Documents required:

• Proof of ID (passport or Irish ID)

• Proof of address (rental agreement or utility bill)

• Irish bank account or credit/debit card

Main internet providers:

• Virgin Media (high-speed cable and fiber)

• eir (nationwide broadband)

• Sky Ireland

• Vodafone Ireland

• Digiweb

• Pure Telecom

Main mobile providers:

• Vodafone

• Three

• eir Mobile

• Tesco Mobile

• Lycamobile

Average costs:

• Home internet: €40–€70/month (fiber or cable)

• Mobile plans: €20–€40/month for unlimited calls and generous data

Tips:

• Use www.comreg.ie or broadband.gov.ie to check availability and speed in your area.

• Prepaid SIM cards are widely available at airports, convenience stores, and supermarkets.

• Contracts typically run for 12–24 months; some providers offer month-to-month options for flexibility.

• Ask about bundle discounts if you need multiple services (internet + mobile + TV).

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Ireland

• Bank account: Most utility providers require an Irish bank account for direct debit payments.

• Meter readings: Always take and record readings on your move-in and move-out dates.

• Bills and payments: You can pay online, by direct debit, or through provider apps.

• Switching providers: It’s easy to change providers at any time; switching can save up to 15–20% annually.

• Heating: Many homes use gas or oil boilers. If you use heating oil, you’ll need to arrange delivery from a local supplier.

• Energy efficiency: The government encourages energy-saving measures; check for grants through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

Wrapping Up

Setting up utilities in Ireland is simple once you know the process. With your identification, address, and bank account ready, you can have electricity, gas, water, and internet services connected within a few days.

Ireland’s utility systems are reliable, well-regulated, and transparent, offering convenient online billing and customer support. Once you’ve taken care of the basics, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything Ireland has to offer, from its welcoming communities to its stunning coastlines and vibrant cities.