Switch electricity providers: costs, cancellation and supply dates

German source reviewed on 22 September 2026.

Is switching electricity providers worthwhile?

That depends on your consumption and the specific tariffs. A fixed saving cannot be promised without these details. Compare offers using the same annual consumption figure and separate ongoing prices from one-off bonuses.

A simple comparison is: annual consumption in kWh × unit price per kWh + annual standing charge. For each offer, calculate the cost without a bonus first, then include the bonus according to its conditions. This helps you see whether the tariff will still suit you after the first year. Also check the price guarantee, contract term and notice period.

Who cancels the existing contract?

For a regular switch, the new supplier often cancels on your behalf. Agree this explicitly to avoid conflicting instructions. If you are using a special cancellation right at short notice, you may need to act yourself. The Bundesnetzagentur explains cancellation and switching suppliers.

Does the 24-hour switch mean I can leave my contract tomorrow?

No. Since 6 June 2025, the technical process of switching electricity suppliers can be completed within 24 hours on working days. This does not shorten your contract term or notice period. The Bundesnetzagentur describes the technical process.

Plan around the confirmed contract end date. Compare the cancellation confirmation from your old provider with the supply confirmation from your new one. If the details do not match, clarify them before the planned switch.

What matters when I move home?

Check your tariff's terms for moving home and report the supply address and date in good time. For contracts outside the basic supply arrangement, § 41b paragraph 5 EnWG provides a right to cancel under certain conditions; an offer to continue supplying you at your new home may be decisive. Moving home therefore does not automatically end every electricity contract.

At the handover, record the meter number, meter reading and date. Keep these details for your bill. In your correspondence, make sure the contracting party, supply address and contract account clearly refer to the same contract.

How does SnapCancel help?

The electricity providers overview links to the relevant provider pages. You can find specific guidance and official sources for enviaM and Grünwelt.

SnapCancel can create a free cancellation PDF or offer an available email option. This does not automatically arrange a tariff switch. Check separately whether you want only to cancel or also to enter into a new supply contract. Keep both providers' confirmations until after the final bill.