Moving to Portugal is an exciting step filled with sunshine, beautiful landscapes, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. Whether you’re settling in Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, or the Silver Coast, getting your utilities set up will be one of the first things to organize once you move into your new home.

This guide will help you navigate the process of setting up:

• Electricity

• Gas

• Water

• Internet and Mobile Services

It also includes major providers, average monthly costs, and practical advice for a smooth transition.

Electricity

Portugal’s electricity market is liberalized, giving you the freedom to choose your provider. The national grid operator, E-Redes, manages the physical delivery of electricity across the country, but you’ll contract directly with a supplier for your energy plan.

If you’re renting, check with your landlord whether the account is active or needs to be transferred to your name. You’ll need to provide meter readings when you move in.

Documents required:

• Passport or residence card

• Portuguese tax number (NIF – Número de Identificação Fiscal)

• Proof of address (rental contract or property deed)

• Bank account details (for direct debit)

• Meter reading (from move-in date)

Major providers:

• EDP (Energias de Portugal)

• Galp Energia

• Endesa

• Iberdrola

• Goldenergy

Average costs:

• Apartments: €70–€120/month

• Houses: €120–€200/month, depending on size and usage

Tips:

• Choose a provider offering dual electricity + gas plans for discounts.

• Compare rates on www.comparador.luz.vaz.pt or www.selectra.pt.

• Most providers offer “green energy” (renewable electricity) options.

• Use smart meters to track consumption and optimize costs.

Gas

Gas is used in many Portuguese homes for heating, cooking, and water heating. Urban areas are usually connected to the piped natural gas network, while rural areas rely on bottled gas (GPL – Gás de Petróleo Liquefeito).

You can choose between regulated or liberalized tariffs, but most residents opt for liberalized plans as they’re often cheaper and more flexible.

Documents required:

• Passport or residence card

• NIF (tax number)

• Proof of residence (rental contract or property deed)

• Bank details

• Safety certificate for the gas installation (required for new connections)

Main providers:

• Galp Energia

• EDP Gás

• Endesa

• Iberdrola

• Goldenergy

Average costs:

• Cooking and hot water only: €30–€50/month

• Full heating: €80–€150/month in winter

Tips:

• Always check if the property has an existing connection before signing a gas contract.

• If using bottled gas, you can buy or exchange cylinders from supermarkets or local distributors.

• Schedule a technician visit for safety inspection before activating service.

Water

Water in Portugal is managed locally by municipal companies or regional utilities. You’ll usually need to set up a contract in person at your local Câmara Municipal (town hall) or the regional water supplier’s office.

If you’re renting, water may already be in your landlord’s name and included in your rent or condominium fees.

Documents required:

• Passport or residence card

• NIF (tax number)

• Proof of address (rental contract or deed)

• Bank account for direct debit (optional)

• Recent meter reading

Major water providers (examples):

• EPAL (Lisbon region)

• Águas do Porto (Porto region)

• Infralobo, Inframoura, or Infraquinta (Algarve region)

• Águas do Algarve (regional)

Average costs:

• €20–€40/month for apartments

• €40–€70/month for houses or families

Tips:

• Water bills usually include sewage and waste collection fees.

• Tap water is safe to drink in most regions, but some prefer filters or bottled water due to taste.

• Bills are often sent bimonthly and can be paid at banks, ATMs, or online.

Internet and Mobile Services

Portugal has a modern and reliable telecommunications infrastructure, with extensive fiber coverage in urban areas. Many providers offer bundled packages combining internet, mobile, and TV at competitive prices.

Documents required:

• Passport or residence card

• NIF (tax number)

• Proof of address

• Bank details

Main providers:

• MEO (Altice Portugal)

• NOS

• Vodafone Portugal

• NOWO (smaller provider, available regionally)

Average costs:

• Home internet: €30–€50/month (fiber or broadband)

• Mobile plans: €15–€30/month for unlimited calls and data bundles

Tips:

• Check coverage at your address before choosing a provider, especially in rural areas.

• Contracts typically last 12–24 months; short-term options may have setup fees.

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

• Use comparison sites like www.comparaja.pt to find the best deals.

General Tips for Managing Utilities in Portugal

• Get your NIF early: It’s required for all contracts, including utilities and internet.

• Check what’s included in your rent: Some properties include water or even electricity in the rental price.

• Payments: Most bills can be paid automatically via direct debit (“débito direto”), or manually through ATMs, banks, or online banking.

• Language: Many providers offer English-speaking customer service, especially in expat areas.

• Meter readings: Always take readings when you move in or out to ensure accurate billing.

• Green options: Renewable energy and water conservation initiatives are common, choose eco-friendly plans where possible.

Wrapping Up

Setting up utilities in Portugal is generally straightforward once you have your NIF, residence documentation, and local bank account. Most contracts can be completed online or at local offices, and many providers offer English support for expats.

Portugal’s utility systems are reliable, transparent, and increasingly focused on sustainability. By setting up your accounts early and monitoring your usage, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, well-connected life in your new Portuguese home, whether overlooking Lisbon’s rooftops, Porto’s riverbanks, or the Algarve’s coast.