Basic Supply
Basic supply is the legally guaranteed electricity and gas delivery by the local basic supplier when no other contract exists.
Key Takeaways
- •Basic supply is the legally guaranteed electricity and gas delivery by the local basic supplier when no other contract exists.
- •Basic Supply belongs to the Energy category. We explain it step by step for newcomers to Germany.
- •The Muller family moves into a new apartment and doesn't have an electricity contract yet. They are automatically supplied by the basic supplier, but pay 35 ct/kWh instead of 28 ct/kWh with a cheaper alternative provider.
meinetarife24 Editorial Team
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Detailed Explanation
Every household in Germany is entitled to basic supply - this is established by law. The basic supplier is the energy company that supplies the most household customers in a network area.
When basic supply applies: - When moving in without an electricity contract - When terminated by the provider - When the provider becomes insolvent - When no contract has been concluded
Features: - No contract commitment (2-week cancellation period) - Supply obligation of the basic supplier - Often significantly more expensive than special rates - No bonus payments
Pricing: - General prices (for new customers) - Basic supply rates are regulated - Price changes with 6 weeks notice - Transparent price composition
Tip: Use basic supply as a transitional solution and quickly switch to a cheaper rate.
Practical Example
The Muller family moves into a new apartment and doesn't have an electricity contract yet. They are automatically supplied by the basic supplier, but pay 35 ct/kWh instead of 28 ct/kWh with a cheaper alternative provider.
Legal Basis
§36 EnWG (Energy Industry Act)
Related Terms
Sources & Methodology
Our methodology: the meinetarife24 Editorial Team checks every definition against binding primary data sources and consumer-focused reference portals. We name the relevant legal basis, link related terms and update each entry regularly. We do not sell loans or tariffs ourselves. This explanation is provided purely for information.
- • Legal basis: §36 EnWG (Energy Industry Act)
- • Price Indication Regulation (PAngV) at Gesetze im Internet
- • Finanztip and the Deutsche Bundesbank as independent references on interest rates and consumer credit.