Germany has a liberalized electricity market, which means you are free to choose your provider. Your building’s default provider (the Grundversorger) is almost always the most expensive option. Switching to a cheaper contract typically saves €100–300 per year for a standard student apartment.
How Much You Can Actually Save
The Grundversorger in most German cities charges €0.35–0.45 per kWh. Alternative providers on comparison platforms offer €0.25–0.32 for new customers. For a 1-person apartment consuming around 1,500 kWh per year, that is a difference of €90–300 annually. For a 2–3 person flat, double those figures.
How to Switch: CHECK24 in Five Steps
- Go to check24.de/strom
- Enter your postcode, your current provider, and your estimated annual consumption (your last bill shows kWh; estimate 1,500 kWh for a single person, 2,500 for two)
- Filter results: check “keine Vorkasse” (no advance payment) and look for providers with at least 4 stars
- Choose a contract — preferably one with a 12-month fixed price, no auto-renewal clause longer than 3 months, and a Verivox or TÜV certification mark
- The new provider handles canceling your old contract. You enter your current provider’s name and customer number; they do the rest.
Important: Read the Cancellation Terms First
Some cheap contracts have a 24-month minimum term. If you might move or leave Germany within a year, a 12-month or monthly-cancellable contract is worth a slightly higher price.
For Renters: Who Pays the Electricity Bill?
In Germany, electricity is almost always paid separately by the tenant, not included in rent (unlike some countries). When you move into a new apartment, register with the Grundversorger immediately — the landlord will give you the meter number. You can then switch to a cheaper provider within a few weeks once you have a German address and bank account.
