Energy is getting really expensive: After electricity prices fell by almost 13 percent on July 1 due to the abolition of the EEG surcharge, they will more than double on January 1, 2023. This is announced by Stadtwerke München (SWM).
The reason for this is the extremely high gas prices on the wholesale markets, which are also having an impact on electricity costs. In addition, there are increasing network charges and, to a lesser extent, the statutory levies. Since most households need less electricity than gas, the absolute increase in euros is usually lower than the increase in gas prices, according to SWM.
According to a sample calculation by SWM, the average Munich household with a consumption of 2,500 kilowatt hours per year will in future pay 139.64 euros per month, up to now it has been 62.71 euros.
Despite their long-term procurement, SWM says it can only slightly mitigate the price increases in wholesale energy trading. “If someone has difficulties paying the electricity bill, we ask that you contact us as soon as possible,” says Stefan Tauber, head of SWM customer service. A solution will then be found together, such as an installment plan, postponing the payment date or using the various social support options.
SWM boss Florian Bieberbach assures that no one will turn off the electricity who reports to the public utility and tries to find a constructive solution. “And of course we will lower the electricity prices again as soon as there is scope for this due to the price development on the energy market.” Likewise, the federal government’s electricity price brake will be passed on immediately when it comes into force, said Bieberbach.
In order to avoid a high additional demand for the annual statement, the SWM recommend increasing the advance payments. This can either be done online on the site swm.de/abschlag, or by scanning the QR code on the personal letter that all customers will soon receive. The Stadtwerke provide tips on saving energy and advice on saving energy on the website swm.de/energie-sparen.
Anyone looking for information on advisory services and municipal assistance can find it on the state capital’s website: muenchen.de/energie.