Ok, so we moved to Spain 3 months ago today, and I have to say we have not been without electricity or internet for 1 minute. Yes, our electricity bill is about 75% more than what we paid in Panama, and we do need heat in the winter and probably a/c in July & August. The entire house is electric and we do have a small pool. But I guess you get what you pay for.
Our internet is the same as we paid in Panama.
Fuel (gas/diesel) is a bit more, but household goods, vehicles and groceries are less. The choices are unlimited.
No surge protectors needed!