Beatrice Lang
Moving into a new apartment can be exciting but overwhelming. Setting up electricity is a priority, and you should do this before moving in. First, check your rental agreement to see if your rent includes utilities, and if so, whether this covers electricity. If not, you will need to set up an account with your chosen energy provider. You will need to provide identification, your move-in date, and your payment method. You may also need to pay a deposit. It is a good idea to research providers in advance and compare prices. You can also ask your property management company for suggestions. Once you have chosen a provider, set a service activation date and check that your electricity is functioning properly on the day you move in.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Priority | Setting up electricity should be a high priority |
| Choosing a provider | Research providers and select one a few weeks before moving in to avoid delays |
| Contracts | Contracts may require a credit check and a deposit |
| Same-day service | Same-day service is available in some cases |
| Utilities included in rent | Some apartments include utilities in the monthly rent, but every property is different |
| Utilities separate from rent | Utilities are sometimes separate from the monthly price of an apartment |
| Payment methods | Set up automatic payments to avoid missing payment due dates |
| Switching providers | You can switch providers to get better rates or services |
| Energy-efficient appliances | Use energy-efficient appliances and consider off-peak hours for electricity use |
| Account setup | Be prepared with necessary information like your move-in date, identification, and payment method |
| Service activation | Set service activation dates for your utilities to ensure everything is up and running before or on your move-in day |
| Technician appointments | For internet connections, book technician appointments early as spots may fill up quickly |
| Utility issues | If there's an issue, contact the utility company's customer service for troubleshooting or to request a technician visit |
| Utility costs | Running the air conditioning during hot summer months could account for about 50% of your electricity bill |
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What You'll Learn
Choose an energy provider
Choosing an energy provider and plan is an important part of setting up electricity in your new apartment.
First, confirm with your leasing agent that you can choose your energy provider. In some places, the electricity provider and plan are predetermined, so it's important to clarify this before proceeding.
If you are free to choose your provider, start by researching local providers and plans using online comparison tools or AI-driven platforms. Enter your ZIP code and use filters to explore the best energy plans for your apartment based on size, usage, and location. Consider factors such as competitive rates, service bundles, customer reviews, and sustainability or renewable energy options if that aligns with your values.
Review your energy usage patterns and how they vary by season to make an informed decision. Understand that certain factors, such as the floor and direction your apartment faces, can impact your energy costs.
When selecting a plan, look for straightforward options that offer fixed rates for an extended period, ideally at least 12 months, to avoid unexpected rate increases. Be sure to read the Terms of Service and Electricity Facts Label to understand the charges and any potential deposit requirements based on your credit history.
Additionally, consider the contract length and whether it aligns with your lease term. Remember that you are not bound to match the contract length with your lease, and moving is typically considered an automatic out for early termination fees. Therefore, focus on finding the plan with the cheapest rate per kWh based on your usage rather than the contract length.
Some reputable energy providers to consider include TXU Energy, Frontier Utilities, Direct Energy, and Gexa Energy. These companies offer various plans with different features and benefits, so be sure to explore their websites or contact their customer service teams for more information.
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Set up automatic payments
Setting up automatic payments is a great way to ensure you never miss a payment due date and avoid late payment fees. It is a convenient option if you don't want to manually pay your electricity bill every month.
First, you need to choose an energy provider. You can do this by researching the average energy prices in your area and selecting a plan that suits your needs and budget. Some providers may require a credit check and a deposit, so it's good to look into this beforehand.
Once you've chosen a provider, contact them to set up an account and provide the necessary information, such as your name, address, move-in date, identification, and payment method. You can then request to set up automatic payments with your chosen provider. This can typically be done online or through their mobile app, if available.
It is important to note that your electricity bill may vary depending on your usage, so it's a good idea to monitor your consumption. You can use energy-efficient appliances and consider off-peak hours to help manage your costs. Additionally, keep in mind that your energy needs may change over time, so review your plan periodically to ensure it still meets your requirements.
By setting up automatic payments, you can have peace of mind knowing that your electricity bills will be paid on time, every time.
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Research average energy prices in your area
Energy prices vary depending on your location and supplier. In the US, the average residential electricity rate is 16.44 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), although this varies across states. States with abundant hydro, wind, or natural gas often have lower rates, while regions reliant on imported energy may pay more. For example, Washington state enjoys rates just above 10 cents per kilowatt-hour thanks to its abundant hydropower, while Hawaii residents pay over 40 cents per kWh due to their reliance on imported fuel.
In the UK, the average electricity bill for a typical household is predicted to be £1,720 per year from 1 July 2025. However, this is not a cap on the total figure one pays, as the cap refers to the maximum price per kWh. The South West has the highest electricity standing charges in England, and London has the highest variable charges. North Wales and Mersey have the highest variable electricity costs in Great Britain, at 27.2p/kWh (including 5% VAT).
If you live in a deregulated area, you can benefit from price competition between providers, although this can also lead to price volatility during peak demand. You can use comparison websites to find the best deals in your area and see if you can save money by switching suppliers. You can also use energy calculators to compare your bills to other households in your postcode and find ways to save money.
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Compare deals from different providers
When comparing deals from different electricity providers, it is important to consider your priorities and specific needs. While price is often a key factor, it is not the only consideration. Here are some factors to keep in mind when comparing deals:
Price and Tariffs
The cost of electricity varies across providers, and it is essential to understand the different tariffs offered. Some providers offer dual fuel tariffs, where you get both gas and electricity from the same supplier, which can often be cheaper and more convenient. However, it is worth comparing the cost of dual fuel tariffs with separate single fuel tariffs to ensure you get the best deal. Fixed-rate tariffs offer a set price per unit of electricity for a specified period, usually between one and two years, protecting you from price hikes. On the other hand, variable tariffs have fluctuating prices that can change every few months.
Green Energy
If environmental impact is important to you, consider providers that offer green energy tariffs or 100% green energy deals, where electricity is sourced from renewable sources. Most providers now offer tariffs featuring electricity generated from renewable sources.
Customer Service
Consider the reputation and customer service standards of the provider. Reviews from other customers can give you insights into their experiences with the company. You may also want to look at their customer service opening hours and how they handle billing queries.
Smart Meters and Apps
Using a smart meter or connecting your meter to an app can help you monitor your energy usage and identify areas where you can save money. Some providers may require you to manage your account online or through an app, so ensure this aligns with your preferences.
Additional Factors
Other factors to consider include the range of services offered by the provider, any discounts or incentives they offer (such as discounts for dual fuel tariffs), and their billing practices. If you are moving into a new apartment, remember to take a meter reading on the day you move in to ensure accurate billing.
Remember to compare deals from multiple providers and use comparison websites or tools that allow you to filter deals based on your specific criteria. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing an electricity provider for your new apartment.
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Check your rental agreement for included utilities
Before you set up electricity in your new apartment, it's important to check your rental agreement for included utilities. This will give you a clear understanding of what utilities are covered in your rent and what you need to set up separately. While some apartments include all utilities in the monthly rent, others may only cover a few, and it's not uncommon for tenants to be responsible for setting up and paying for electricity themselves.
Your rental agreement will outline the specifics of what is included in your rent. In some cases, the rent may encompass everything, including electricity, water, gas, and other utilities. Alternatively, your rent may only cover a basic set of utilities, and you'll need to arrange additional services yourself. It's important to carefully review the agreement to identify which category your new apartment falls into.
If electricity is included, you may still want to clarify the details. Some buildings have different arrangements, and while electricity may be included, there could be limitations or specific conditions attached. For example, the electricity usage may be capped at a certain amount, and any excess will be billed to you. Clarifying these details upfront will help you manage your expectations and budget accordingly.
On the other hand, if electricity is not included in your rental agreement, you will need to take the necessary steps to set it up. This usually involves choosing an energy provider and setting up an account with them. You will likely need to provide information such as your new address, move-in date, identification, and payment method. It's a good idea to research service providers in advance and select one a few weeks before your move-in date to avoid any delays in having your electricity connected.
In some cases, your rental agreement may not explicitly state whether electricity is included or not. If you're unsure, it's best to speak directly with your landlord or property management company. They can provide specific details about what utilities are covered in your rent and offer guidance on choosing an energy provider if you need to set up electricity separately. Remember to also consider other utilities like water, gas, and internet, as these may have separate arrangements and require individual setup processes.
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Frequently asked questions
Contact an energy provider in your area and set up an account. You will need to provide your new address, a valid ID, and possibly a deposit if you don't have a credit history with the provider.
You can do some research on the average energy price in your area and compare this with the providers servicing your new address.
Make sure you have turned off utility services at your old address and that they are turned on at your new apartment. You will also need to give the companies your unit number when you provide them with your home address.
Aside from electricity, you may need to set up an account for water and sewage if it is not included in your rent. You may also need to set up gas and internet services.
You can use energy-efficient appliances, such as smart power strips, water-efficient showerheads, and LED light bulbs. You can also consider off-peak hours for electricity use and bundle services like internet, streaming, and mobile plans to cut costs.
