Dynamic or fixed energy contract: which suits you?
With solar panels, you have extra choices. When does a dynamic contract pay off? And when is it better to choose security with a fixed rate?
Dynamic or fixed contract with solar panels: what should you compare?
Compare total annual costs for the same consumption and solar production. A low average electricity rate alone does not tell you what you will pay.
- Imports: compare rates including taxes, VAT and supplier markups. Check which elements are fixed and which may change.
- Exports: check the payment and how the supplier handles negative prices. Solar panels often export during cheaper hours.
- Other costs: include subscriptions and any export charges. Check contract length, cancellation costs and welcome-bonus conditions.
- Your usage: an EV or heat pump may offer flexible demand. Without suitable controls the benefit is uncertain; a battery does not automatically make a dynamic contract cheaper.
Our calculator compares scenarios using disclosed assumptions and historical or estimated hourly prices. It is not a live quote comparison. Then check current supplier terms and costs excluded from the model.
Compare contract scenarios for your householdComparison at a glance
Dynamic | Fixed | |
|---|---|---|
| Price structure | Changes hourly (ENTSO-E) | Fixed price per kWh |
| Risk | Price spikes possible | Predictable costs |
| Savings potential | €100-400/year extra | No extra savings |
| Effort required | Adjust consumption | Nothing needed |
| Best for | Flexible use, EV, battery | Security, rarely home |
How does a dynamic contract work?
With a dynamic contract, you pay a different price every hour, based on the wholesale price on the European energy market (ENTSO-E). The price is announced a day in advance.
Typical prices on a sunny day
With solar panels, you benefit twice: during the day electricity is often cheap (lots of sun = lots of supply) and you use your own free electricity.
When to choose dynamic?
- ✓You have flexible consumptionYou can shift appliances to cheap hours (washing machine, dishwasher, boiler).
- ✓You have an electric carEVs can charge at night or during the day when electricity is cheap. Potential €200-400/year savings.
- ✓You have (or plan) a home batteryWith a battery, you can smart charge at low prices and discharge at high prices.
- ✓You're willing to follow pricesYou regularly check prices or use automation (smart plugs, apps).
When to choose fixed?
- You want certaintyYou know exactly what you pay, no surprises with price spikes.
- You're rarely home during the dayYou can't shift consumption to cheap hours.
- You don't want hassleYou don't want to think about when to run the washing machine.
Note: dynamic is not always cheaper
During periods of high prices (winter, little sun/wind), dynamic rates can spike significantly. Without flexibility or a battery, you could end up paying more than with a fixed contract.
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