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Electricity price increase in Germany: how to use your special right to cancel
Many suppliers adjust prices at the turn of the year. In Germany you don't have to accept a price increase: a supplier must announce it in advance, and you can then cancel – regardless of the normal contract term. Switching is simple, and there is no risk of losing power.
1. Read the price letter carefully
Note the new working price (ct/kWh), the base price (€/month) and the date the change takes effect. Notice must reach you at least one month in advance for special contracts (§ 41 (5) EnWG).
2. Calculate what the increase costs you
Use your annual consumption from the last bill to compare old and new costs – our electricity calculator helps with individual devices.
3. Compare tariffs with a price guarantee
Look at the total annual cost, the minimum term, the notice period and the type of price guarantee (many exclude taxes and levies).
4. Cancel by the date the increase takes effect
With a special contract you may cancel without notice to the date of the price change. In basic supply (Grundversorgung) you can cancel at any time with two weeks' notice.
5. Let the new supplier handle the switch
The new supplier usually cancels the old contract and registers the switch with the grid operator. You never lose power – if anything goes wrong, the local basic supplier steps in.
6. Read the meter on the switch date
Take a dated photo of the meter on the changeover day to avoid disputes over the final bill.
Be careful with very high new-customer bonuses: they often only pay off in the first year. Compare the cost for year two as well.
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