Save on Electricity Costs
Stromkosten Sparen - Bis zu 850€/Jahr
Learn how to reduce your electricity bills in Germany. Perfect guide for expats and newcomers with English explanations.
What are Stromkosten?
Stromkosten means "electricity costs" in German. If you're new to Germany, understanding your electricity bill is essential. German electricity prices are among the highest in Europe, but there are many ways to save money - especially by switching providers.
Unlike some countries, Germany has a liberalized energy market with 200+ electricity providers. This means you can choose your provider and switch anytime. Most newcomers stay with the expensive default provider (Grundversorger) without realizing they could save hundreds of euros per year.
Key German Terms - Wichtige Begriffe
Essential vocabulary for your electricity bill
Stromkosten
Electricity costs - Your total bill
Arbeitspreis
Price per kWh (kilowatt-hour)
Grundpreis
Monthly base fee (fixed cost)
Verbrauch
Consumption in kWh
Abschlag
Monthly advance payment
Anbieterwechsel
Switching providers
Grundversorger
Default utility (most expensive)
Preisgarantie
Price guarantee period
Best Ways to Save on Electricity
Die effektivsten Methoden zum Stromkosten Sparen
Switch Provider
Save €300-600
Biggest impact! Switch from default provider to a cheaper tariff. No effort required.
Kill Standby
Save €50-100
Use power strips with switches to eliminate standby consumption from electronics.
Use LEDs
Save €30-80
Replace old bulbs with LEDs. They use 90% less energy and last 10x longer.
Wash Smart
Save €40-60
Wash at 30°C instead of 60°C. Use eco programs and full loads only.
How to Switch Providers
Step-by-Step Guide - Schritt für Schritt
Find Your Current Bill
Look at your last electricity bill (Stromrechnung). Find your annual consumption in kWh and your postcode (PLZ).
Compare Prices
Use our comparison tool below. Enter your postcode and consumption to see all available tariffs sorted by price.
Choose a Tariff
Select a tariff with good ratings, price guarantee (Preisgarantie), and reasonable contract terms (12 months max).
Apply Online
Fill out the online form (5 minutes). You'll need your meter number (Zählernummer) from your current bill.
Done! New Provider Handles Everything
Your new provider cancels your old contract automatically. No interruption to electricity supply. Start saving!
Compare Prices & Start Saving
Stromkosten Vergleich - Enter your details below
Electricity Cost Comparison
Find cheaper tariffs and save up to €850/year
Common Questions
Häufige Fragen - Frequently Asked Questions
Why are electricity costs so high in Germany?
Germany has some of Europe's highest electricity prices due to taxes and renewable energy levies(about 50% of your bill). The good news: switching providers doesn't reduce taxes, but can significantly lower the energy cost component - typically saving €300-600 per year.
Is it safe to switch electricity providers as a foreigner?
Absolutely safe! German law guarantees continuous electricity supply during any switch. Your electricity comes from the same grid regardless of provider. No German language required - the switch is online and many providers offer English support. Your new provider handles all paperwork including canceling your old contract.
What's the fastest way to save on Stromkosten?
Switch providers! This is by far the biggest and easiest saving. No behavior change needed. Takes 5 minutes online. The default provider (Grundversorger) charges 20-40% more than competitive tariffs. After switching, you can add savings by eliminating standby (€100/year), using LEDs (€50/year), and washing at 30°C (€50/year).
How much electricity does a typical German household use?
Average consumption: 1 person = 1,500 kWh, 2 persons = 2,500 kWh,3 persons = 3,500 kWh, 4+ persons = 4,500+ kWh per year. If you have electric water heating (Durchlauferhitzer), add 1,000-2,000 kWh. Check your last bill for exact consumption.
Do I need to speak German to switch providers?
No German required! The comparison and switching process is straightforward online. You only need your postcode (PLZ), annual consumption (kWh), and meter number (Zählernummer). Many providers offer English customer service. Our comparison tool shows all information clearly.
Start Saving on Stromkosten Today
Compare 200+ providers and switch in 5 minutes. Save up to €850 per year!