Stromvergleich in Germany(Electricity Comparison Guide)
New to Germany? This guide explains how to compare electricity providers (Stromanbieter) and find the best rates for your home. No German skills required!
What is Stromvergleich?
Was ist das? / Bu nedir?
Stromvergleich (literally: "electricity comparison") is how Germans find cheaper electricity rates. Unlike many countries, Germany has a free energy market with over 200 electricity providers (Stromanbieter).
This means you can choose your provider and potentially save €300-600 per yearby switching from the default local provider (Grundversorger).
Key German Terms You'll See
- Stromanbieter = Electricity provider
- kWh (Kilowattstunde) = Unit of electricity usage
- Grundpreis = Monthly base fee (fixed)
- Arbeitspreis = Price per kWh (variable)
- Ökostrom = Green/renewable electricity
- Vertragslaufzeit = Contract duration
How to Compare Electricity in GermanySchritt für Schritt / Adım adım
Enter your postal code (Postleitzahl)
Your PLZ determines which providers are available in your area. You can find it on any German address or mail.
💡 Tip: If you're still looking for an apartment, use the PLZ of areas you're considering.
Enter your yearly usage (Jahresverbrauch)
Don't know your usage? Use these German averages:
💡 Tip: Check your last electricity bill (Stromrechnung) for exact usage.
Compare results and choose
Look at the yearly total cost (Jahreskosten), not just the kWh price. Consider contract length and whether you want green energy (Ökostrom).
💡 Tip: 12-month contracts with 6-week cancellation notice are recommended.
Switch online (your new provider handles everything)
The new provider will cancel your old contract for you. You will never be without electricity - this is guaranteed by German law!
✓ No service interruption guaranteed / Keine Stromunterbrechung
Find Your Electricity Provider
Passende Stromanbieter finden / Elektrik sağlayıcınızı bulun
Common QuestionsHäufige Fragen / Sık Sorulan Sorular
Do I need a Schufa score to get electricity?
No. Unlike bank accounts or phone contracts, electricity providers typically don't check your Schufa (German credit score). As a newcomer, you can sign up for electricity right away. Some providers may ask for a small deposit (Kaution) if you have no German address history.
What happens if I don't choose a provider?
You'll automatically receive electricity from the local default provider (Grundversorger). This is usually 30-50% more expensive than market rates. That's why comparing and switching is recommended.
Is green electricity (Ökostrom) more expensive?
Often not! Many Ökostrom providers are competitive with regular electricity prices. Some are even cheaper than the Grundversorger. Our comparison tool shows you both options so you can decide.
Can I switch if I'm renting?
Yes! Unless your rent includes electricity (Warmmiete mit Strom), you're free to choose your own provider. Check your rental contract - if you pay electricity separately (Kaltmiete), you can switch anytime.
What documents do I need to switch?
You'll need: your address, meter number (Zählernummer - found on your electricity meter), and bank details for payment. The new provider handles all cancellation with your old provider.
Save €300-600/year
Compared to default provider rates
Switch in 5 minutes
Online process, no paperwork
Green options available
100% renewable energy providers
Ready to find your electricity provider?
Compare 200+ providers and see your potential savings in minutes.
meinetarife24.de is a free comparison service. We may receive commissions from providers, but this doesn't affect your electricity price.