New Customer Bonus
The new customer bonus is a one-time payment or credit that energy providers offer new customers as a switching incentive.
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Detailed Explanation
The new customer bonus is a marketing tool for energy providers. It significantly reduces effective costs in the first contract year.
Types of bonuses: - New customer bonus: For first contract with this provider - Instant bonus: Quick payout (usually after 90 days) - Loyalty model: Discount for longer contract duration - Switching bonus: Specifically for switchers
Payout conditions: - Usually after 12 months of contract duration - Or proportionally with earlier cancellation - Only with full payment of all bills - No bonus with payment delays
Caution: - Price increases significantly in year 2 - Compare total costs over 2 years - Note cancellation periods - Choose reputable providers
Practical Example
An electricity tariff costs 29 ct/kWh with 150 EUR new customer bonus. At 3,000 kWh consumption: Annual costs 870 EUR minus 150 EUR bonus = 720 EUR effective. In year 2 without bonus: full 870 EUR.
Legal Basis
§41 EnWG (Energy supply contracts)