UTILITIES

The domestic electrical current in France is 220V AC. Plug fittings are usually of the standard European size with 2 round pins. If you are arriving with foreign appliances, you will likely need an adaptor or a transformer.

To open an account for any utility, you must provide identification such as a passport or residence permit, as well as proof of address (justificatif de domicile). This can be your rental agreement, rent receipt, another utility bill or any proof that you are the owner of the property.

You generally receive utility bills every 2 months. It is possible to request to have your bill payments automatically debited from your bank account.

ELECTRICITY AND GAS

The French government partially privatised its utility companies, Gaz de France (GDF) and Electricité de France (EDF) in 2005. In July 2007, the market was completely opened to competing suppliers.

A comprehensive guide to all the different suppliers you can choose from, as well as your consumer rights, is available in French on the Energie-Info website.

You can find your local EDF or GDF office through the phone book or online. Service can usually be established within 48 hours.

It's worth knowing that electricity costs less during specific overnight hours (les heures creuses). You may also be eligible for tax deductions if you install certain kinds of heaters, so check with your supplier for details.