Energy suppliers had to inform their customers by March 1, 2023 what relief the energy price brakes would result in for them. Not all providers have managed to comply with this legal obligation. Other suppliers did provide information - but with errors in content that could cost consumers dearly. Rico Dulinski, lawyer at the Brandenburg Consumer Center (VZB), explains what should be taken into account in the letters so that the price brakes are effective.

Have all consumers now received the legally required information letters about the energy price cap?

Rico Dulinski: No. Many consumers are still waiting for information about the effects of the energy price caps on their respective contracts.

What is so important about this letter? What should you pay attention to?

Dulinski: Consumers should definitely pay attention to the information on expected annual consumption. This results in the relief quota, i.e. the part of consumption to which the price brake applies. This corresponds to 80 percent of the expected annual consumption.

What happens if my provider incorrectly estimated the annual consumption forecast?

Dulinski: If the annual consumption forecast is too low, this has two effects: those affected receive less energy at a cheaper relief price than they would be entitled to. In return, they have to pay the higher contract price for more energy than necessary. If the annual consumption forecast is too high, consumers' advance payments will also be higher than necessary. The best way to check the consumption values ​​is to use the last annual consumption bills.

What else is important?

Dulinski: Consumers should also check the amount of the required deductions. Many providers have increased these despite relief. However, this is only permitted if energy prices have recently been increased or will be increased soon. You can check the discounts quickly and easily using the online calculator from the consumer advice centers .

What can I do if the results don't match?

Dulinski: If the new discounts actually differ significantly, consumers should immediately inform their supplier in writing and ask them to correct the calculation. In some customer portals you have the option to customize these yourself. If the provider does not respond and you have given a direct debit authorization, you can revoke it as a precautionary measure. Those affected should then transfer the appropriate deduction on time so as not to default on payment.

And how do I protect myself from high additional payments?

Dulinski: In order to be prepared for high additional payments, we recommend making provisions for high additional payments yourself and setting aside a certain amount each month. This way you maintain control over the money and it is not lost in the event of the provider going bankrupt.

For individual questions, consumers can seek advice from the Brandenburg Consumer Center. Due to the energy price crisis, the Brandenburg Consumer Center is currently offering advice on energy law free of charge.

Source:

Brandenburg Consumer Center

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