Green Electricity 2026:
Rates & Developments

No, often it is the opposite. Due to increased CO2 prices and falling costs for wind and solar power, green electricity tariffs are often cheaper than conventional tariffs in 2026. The default supply (Grundversorgung) is almost always the most expensive. A comparison is worthwhile - many consumers save €100-200 per year with green electricity.

The "Grüner Strom Label" and "ok-power Label" continue to be the strictest certifications. They guarantee that 1-2 cents per kWh flow into the construction of new renewable facilities and that the provider has no stake in coal or nuclear power plants. TÜV certificates are solid but less strict. Avoid tariffs with only RECS certificates.

Several important developments: Offshore wind power is being strongly expanded, solar panel mandates for new buildings take effect, smart grid technologies enable dynamic tariffs, and CO2 prices continue to rise. For consumers, this means: more green electricity options, more stable prices, and new tariff models with hourly pricing.

If you are flexible and have a smart meter, you can save up to 20% with dynamic tariffs. On sunny, windy days, electricity is particularly cheap. However, this requires that you can shift consumption (washing machine, EV charging, dishwasher). For households with a fixed routine, tariffs with price guarantees are often more sensible.

An average 3-person household (3,500 kWh) saves about 1.5 tonnes of CO2 per year with real green electricity compared to the German electricity mix. This is equivalent to about 7,500 car kilometers or a round-trip flight from Frankfurt to Mallorca. With higher consumption (heat pump, EV), the savings are correspondingly larger.

The terms are used synonymously - there is no legal definition. What matters is the quality label. Without a label, any provider could theoretically call themselves "eco." Look for "Grüner Strom Label," "ok-power," or at least TÜV certificates. These guarantee that the electricity actually comes from renewable sources.

Yes, and this is particularly attractive in 2026. Balcony power plants (up to 800 watts) reduce your grid consumption. You cover the remaining demand with a green electricity tariff. Many providers also offer feed-in compensation for excess electricity. This combination maximizes both savings and climate protection.

Switching is simple: enter your postal code and annual consumption, choose a tariff with your desired quality label, apply online. The new provider will cancel your old contract and handle all formalities. Electricity supply is guaranteed during the entire switch - there is no interruption. The switch usually takes 2-4 weeks.