Set Up & Switch Electricity
in Germany 2026
Just moved in? If you don't act, you overpay from day one because you are automatically put on the expensive default tariff. Here is how to set up electricity properly, understand your bill and switch to a cheaper tariff using the new faster rules introduced in June 2025.
The key points at a glance
When you move in you are automatically supplied by the local basic provider, usually the most expensive tariff. You can leave it any time with two weeks' notice. On move-in day, read your meter, keep your registration and a SEPA IBAN ready, and switch to a cheaper tariff. Since June 2025 the technical electricity switch happens within 24 hours on working days.
Last updated: 1 June 2026 | Reading time: approx. 8 minutes
What to expect
The Grundversorgung trap when you move in
This is the mistake that costs newcomers the most. When you move into a flat and do nothing, the local basic provider (Grundversorgung) automatically supplies you. It sounds convenient, but it is expensive: the basic supply is usually the most expensive tariff on the market.
The good news: you are not stuck. You can cancel the basic supply at any time with two weeks' notice, and according to the consumer advice centre (Verbraucherzentrale) the switch itself is safe, free and without any interruption. Nobody comes into your flat; nothing changes on the wiring or meter, only your contract gets cheaper.
Remember: as long as you stay on the basic supply, you almost always overpay. So your first step after moving in should be a tariff comparison, not waiting for the first high annual bill.
The right order: registration, bank account, electricity
Many newcomers stumble not over the electricity itself, but over the order. These three steps belong together:
1. Anmeldung (register your address)
Register your residence at the Bürgeramt. The registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung) is needed for almost everything, including a bank account.
2. Bank account / SEPA IBAN
You pay the electricity bill by SEPA direct debit. Any IBAN from the SEPA area works; a German account is not required, but makes things simpler.
3. Set up or switch electricity
With your address and IBAN you sign up for an electricity tariff online. Compare first so you don't stay on the expensive basic supply.
You don't have to wait until everything is perfect, you can often register electricity as soon as you have the new address. But without registration and an IBAN it gets difficult with many providers, so plan these steps right at the start.
Move-in day: read and photograph your meter
This small habit protects you from someone else's costs. On move-in day, read the meter reading of your electricity meter and photograph it together with the meter number. That way you only pay for your own consumption, not the previous tenant's.
Note the reading
The number on the meter on move-in day, plus the meter number.
Take a photo
A dated photo is your proof in case of any later dispute.
Pass it on
Send the reading to your provider; when switching, to both old and new.
The MaLo-ID (market location ID) is an eleven-digit number that uniquely identifies your connection. You usually find it on your electricity bill. It can speed up a switch, but you do not have to provide it yourself, the new provider can request it from the grid operator. Only share it with providers you trust.
Compare and switch electricity tariffs
Enter your annual consumption and postcode and compare free of charge and without obligation. You'll see straight away how much cheaper it gets than the basic supply.
Understanding your electricity bill
The German electricity bill confuses almost every newcomer. There are three terms you need to know:
How much do you actually use?
Your annual consumption in kilowatt-hours is the most important input for any comparison. As a rough guide (per Stromspiegel, a flat without electric water heating): a one-person household uses about 1,300 to 1,600 kWh per year, a two-person household around 1,900 to 2,500 kWh. You'll find the exact figure on your last annual bill; as a newcomer you estimate it at first from the number of people.
Switching to save and the new rules since June 2025
Switching has become easier. Since 6 June 2025 the technical electricity switch must happen within 24 hours on working days (a Federal Network Agency ruling; Section 20a EnWG requires it by 1 January 2026 at the latest). The ADAC explains what that means in practice. Note: faster technology does not replace cancelling on time, and the rule does not apply to gas yet.
What to look for in a tariff
How much does it bring?
Leaving the basic supply for a cheaper tariff can save several hundred euros a year depending on consumption. The exact saving depends on your usage and starting tariff, the comparison tool shows your specific figure. You can read more on our why switch and save guide.
Schufa, deposits and English-speaking providers
Worried you can't even get a contract without a German credit history? Relax: most electricity providers don't require a Schufa credit check. Some ask for a prepayment or deposit if you have no German credit data, which is common and not an obstacle. There are also providers with a fully English website, app and customer service, which makes the start much easier for newcomers.
Common newcomer worries, answered quickly
| Question | Short answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need a Schufa? | Usually no. Without credit data, possibly a prepayment or deposit. |
| Is a German account required? | No. A SEPA IBAN is enough; a German account just makes it easier. |
| Is there English service? | Yes, some providers are fully usable in English. |
| Will my power be cut off? | No. The switch happens without any interruption. |
Frequently asked questions
Get off the basic supply
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