Moving to a new country often comes with the challenge of setting up essential utilities. In Singapore, understanding how to set up utilities such as gas, electricity, water, internet, and mobile services is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition. This guide will walk you through the main providers, costs, and steps involved in setting up utilities in Singapore, helping you budget effectively and avoid surprises.

Essential Utilities: Gas, Electricity, and Water Providers

Key Providers:

• SP Group: The main utility provider for electricity, gas, and water in Singapore. SP Group is responsible for maintaining the infrastructure and delivering services to most households in the country.

• Alternative Electricity Retailers: While SP Group is the default provider, you have the option to choose from various electricity retailers that can offer competitive rates. Some popular options include:

  • Geneco: Known for offering competitive prices and flexible plans. They also have plans that allow customers to lock in lower rates for a specified period, protecting them from price fluctuations.

  • Senoko Energy: Offers both fixed-rate and discount plans, appealing to those who want to control costs over the long term. Their rates are generally more affordable than the standard SP Group tariffs.

  • Sembcorp Power: They also provide discount-based electricity plans and are known for their “green” options that allow customers to opt for renewable energy.

Average Monthly Costs (2025 Estimates):

• Electricity: The average cost for electricity in a family-sized apartment ranges from S$120 to S$200 per month, depending on usage and the chosen provider.

• Gas: Expect to pay around S$20 to S$40 per month for gas, which is used primarily for cooking and hot water.

• Water: Water usage in Singapore costs approximately S$40 to S$60 per month.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

Having reliable internet is essential for both work and leisure. Singapore’s internet service market is competitive, and you'll have several options for broadband services.

Popular Providers:

• Singtel: One of Singapore's largest telecommunications companies. Singtel offers a wide range of broadband plans with varying speeds, including high-speed fibre options.

• StarHub: A major provider offering broadband services with competitive pricing and bundled plans (internet + TV + mobile).

• M1: Known for cost-effective broadband plans and strong customer service. M1 offers a variety of plans, including both fibre and wireless options, and is a good choice for budget-conscious consumers.

• MyRepublic: A smaller ISP that focuses on delivering high-speed internet with a range of affordable plans. It’s particularly popular among gamers due to its low latency.

• ViewQwest: Known for high-speed fibre broadband and no-contract plans.

Average Costs (2025 Estimates):

Home fibre broadband plans typically range from S$40 to S$70 per month, depending on the speed and package. Expect to pay more for higher-speed options, such as those above 1 Gbps.

Factors to Consider:

• Speed: Determine the speed you need based on your usage. For example, 1 Gbps is ideal for households with multiple people streaming or working online.

• Reliability: Research the reliability of each provider in your area. It’s worth checking reviews or asking your neighbours about their experiences.

• Bundled Packages: Many ISPs offer bundled deals, combining broadband, TV, and even home phone services. These bundles can offer good savings if you need multiple services.

Mobile Providers

Mobile services are also a vital part of your connectivity in Singapore. Several providers offer both postpaid and prepaid plans to suit different needs.

Major Providers:

• Singtel: Singapore's largest mobile network provider, offering a range of postpaid and prepaid plans, including extensive coverage and high-speed 5G services.

• StarHub: StarHub is one of the major mobile and broadband providers in Singapore, offering a range of plans, including fibre broadband and mobile services. While it provides solid coverage and some bundled options, its pricing tends to be on the higher side compared to other providers.

• M1: Offers budget-friendly mobile plans, including SIM-only and postpaid options, with a focus on affordability.

Budget-Friendly MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators):

• GOMO: GOMO is a no-contract, budget-friendly mobile brand under Singtel, offering affordable SIM-only plans with large data allocations.

• VIVIFI: VIVIFI offers affordable SIM-only plans with flexible contract options.

• Circles.Life: A popular MVNO known for offering flexible, data-heavy mobile plans with no-contract options.

Average Mobile Plan Costs:

• SIM-only Plans: These typically cost between S$20 and S$50 per month and offer generous data allowances, making them ideal for those who don’t need a physical phone contract.

• Postpaid Plans: These plans range from S$40 to S$100 per month, depending on your data and call needs. Some providers offer data-heavy plans with unlimited calls, while others offer more basic options.

Choosing the Right Plan:

• Consider your data usage and whether you require international calling or roaming.

• If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, MVNOs like Circles.Life and GOMO can be excellent choices as they offer competitive rates without long-term contracts.

Tips for Reducing Utility Costs

Utility bills can quickly add up, but there are several strategies to lower your monthly expenses.

• Energy-efficient appliances: Opt for appliances with high energy ratings to save on electricity bills.

• Smart plugs and timers: Use these to reduce standby power consumption, especially for devices that are not in use.

• Solar Panel Installation: If you’re a homeowner, consider installing solar panels to reduce long-term electricity costs. Singapore’s sunny climate makes it a great place to generate solar power.

• Bundled Services: Look for discounts when bundling services, such as internet and mobile plans. Many ISPs and mobile providers offer bundled deals for greater savings.

• Monitor Usage: Many utility providers offer apps to track your electricity and water usage. Use these apps to identify areas where you can reduce consumption.

Conclusion

Setting up utilities in Singapore is a straightforward process, but it's essential to be proactive about comparing providers to ensure you're getting the best deals. With the right knowledge and some planning, you'll be able to enjoy comfortable living without overspending. Make sure to review your options for electricity, water, internet, and mobile services to optimize your monthly budget.

By taking these steps, you'll be well on your way to settling into your new home in Singapore with all the essential utilities up and running.