Essential Tips for Securing Your Electricity Agreement Before Moving In

Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a stressful experience. Among the countless tasks on your to-do list, securing electricity agreements may not initially seem vital. However, a recent survey conducted by Norstat reveals that 43 percent of Swedes actually postpone signing electricity agreements until after they have moved in, which could lead to costly consequences. Before planning your move, it's essential to understand that obtaining electricity for your new home requires two separate contracts: an electricity network agreement with the local utility that manages the electrical grid of your area, and an electricity trading agreement with a provider from which you purchase your electricity. One common pitfall many newcomers fall into is neglecting to contact an electricity trading company before moving in. In such cases, the utility company will assign you to a referred electricity dealer—this often results in a referred agreement that is significantly more expensive than choosing a plan that fits your needs. Jens Berggren, a climate coach at Vattenfall, highlights that these referred agreements are seldom advantageous. To avoid ending up with a costly electricity contract, it's highly recommended to address your electricity agreements well in advance—ideally, at least ten days prior to your move-in date. This way, you will have ample time to review your options and select a plan that best suits your consumption and financial situation. When it comes to selecting the right electricity agreement, there are various options available. You can choose between fixed, variable, or mixed agreements. A fixed price agreement offers the security of a steady cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) regardless of fluctuations in the electricity market. On the other hand, variable agreements may have prices that change based on real-time consumption, potentially offering savings if you're able to adjust your usage accordingly. Mixed agreements combine elements of both fixed and variable pricing and can be an appealing middle ground. It’s important to consider your own consumption habits when deciding which type of agreement to opt for. Remember, the cheapest kWh is the one you don't use. Jens Berggren suggests a simple yet effective strategy—washing full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine rather than small, individual items can save a family approximately 200 kWh per year. In summary, proactively securing an electricity agreement before moving in not only helps avoid unexpected expenses but can also lead to significant savings. Making an informed choice about your electricity contracts requires understanding your options and reviewing your consumption habits. By taking these initial steps, you can ensure a smoother transition into your new home, starting with a smart energy plan. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2