Moving to Spain from another country brings many changes: the climate, the culture, and daily routines. Knowing how to set up your electricity as an expat will help you plan your consumption and avoid surprises.
You may already be used to energy-efficient habits almost instinctively, but understanding the Spanish electricity system and your tariff options can make a big difference.
Applying the Nordic philosophy of Lagom—“not too little, not too much, just enough”—helps you live comfortably, save money, and be more sustainable from day one.
One of the first steps when you arrive is to check the energy performance certificate (EPC) of your new home. This document gives a clear idea of your expected energy consumption and allows you to plan your electricity use more effectively.
Lagom is a Swedish word meaning “not too little, not too much, just right.” More than a concept, it’s a lifestyle philosophy covering everything from home decor and organization to responsible resource management, including energy.
In Nordic countries, where winters are long and energy resources are limited, efficient consumption is natural. Applying this philosophy to your electricity use in Spain means using exactly what you need—without wasting energy or sacrificing comfort.
Moving to Spain means adapting to a different electricity system: the Mediterranean climate reduces heating needs but increases air conditioning use in summer; daylight hours vary, and electricity tariffs work differently. Adjusting your habits with Lagom in mind helps balance comfort and efficiency, avoiding unnecessary expenses or wasted energy.
Spain’s electricity market is liberalized: you can choose your provider and tariff. There is a regulated market (PVPC) and a free market, each with its own pricing and conditions. Understanding key concepts like contracted power, billing periods, and time-of-use tariffs will help you make informed decisions and avoid surprises on your bill.
Before moving in, request the energy performance certificate. Required in Spain for all homes for sale or rent, this document shows your home’s efficiency and estimated energy consumption. It allows you to anticipate electricity needs, identify potential improvements, and plan your budget more accurately.
The EPC provides detailed information about your home:
If you’re renting, the landlord must provide it. If you’re buying, the seller is legally obliged to deliver it before signing. If it doesn’t exist, you can request it from an authorized certifier. Certificates are valid for 10 years, so recent homes usually already have one.
With this data, you can estimate your electricity needs. For example, an 80 m² home with a D rating and an estimated consumption of 150 kWh/m² per year would need about 12,000 kWh annually. This helps you choose the right power, compare tariffs, and realistically plan your monthly budget.
Remember: energy consumption and your bill depend directly on how you use electricity each month—even during low-activity periods.
Managing and setting up electricity in Spain requires a different approach than you might be used to. Luckily, Spain offers advanced technology and flexible options to make adaptation easier.
Applying Lagom in Spain doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or wellbeing. It’s about finding a balance between your needs and efficient energy use. Understanding the EPC, adjusting contracted power, and selecting the right tariff allows you to:
Your home, your energy, and your wellbeing stay in balance, and every decision you make positively reinforces your life—comfortably, simply, and efficiently.
Our goal is to help you optimize your electricity consumption effortlessly, while protecting the environment. Nordy designs energy solutions and services to simplify life in Spain, helping you manage your home efficiently and sustainably.
Taking the step toward a more efficient and balanced home is easier than you think. Explore our energy tariffs and start enjoying a more efficient, environmentally friendly home today.