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Fixed-price electricity contract 2026 — who benefits and when

A fixed-price electricity contract locks the price for the whole contract period. Learn when it makes sense and when it doesn't.

A fixed-price electricity contract locks the per-kWh price for the entire contract duration — typically 12, 24 or 36 months. Your monthly bill becomes predictable: total consumption × locked rate + a fixed basic fee. This guide explains when fixed-price contracts pay off, when they don’t, and how to evaluate them.

What is a fixed-price contract?

A fixed-price contract (Finnish: kiinteähintainen sähkösopimus) means your kWh price stays the same for the contract period, regardless of what happens on Nord Pool. Your provider takes on the price risk; you trade potential savings for predictability.

Pros and cons

When is fixed-price worth it?

Fixed-price contracts make most sense when: a) Nord Pool prices are expected to rise during your contract period, b) your budget cannot handle volatile bills, c) you value predictability over potential savings.

In hindsight, locking in low fixed rates in 2020 (around 4–6 c/kWh) was a brilliant move for 2022’s crisis. Locking in high rates in late 2022 (around 15–25 c/kWh) for 24-month contracts now looks costly as 2024–25 prices fell.

Example calculation

Row house, 6 000 kWh/year, 12-month fixed-price contract at 8.5 c/kWh:

Compare to other contract types

Read about other options: spot electricity (cheaper average, volatile), hybrid (mix of both), or fixed-term contracts (covers contract duration aspect).

Frequently asked questions

How long can I lock a fixed price?
Typically 12, 24 or 36 months. Some providers offer 6-month or 48-month options but these are rare. The longer the lock, the higher the risk margin built in by the provider.
Can I terminate a fixed-price contract early?
Yes, but you usually pay a termination penalty (€50–200 typically) plus a fee covering the provider’s lost margin. Check your contract terms before signing.
Is fixed-price the same as fixed-term?
No. ”Fixed-price” refers to the price model (locked rate). ”Fixed-term” refers to the duration (you’re bound for the contract period). You can have a fixed-price open-ended contract, or a fixed-term spot contract.
What happens when my fixed-price contract ends?
If you do nothing, most providers convert your contract to an open-ended one at their current market rate (often more expensive). To get the best deal, compare again about 1 month before the contract ends.
Why are fixed prices higher than spot averages?
The provider includes a risk margin (typically 0.5–2 c/kWh) to cover the chance that prices rise during your contract. You’re effectively paying for insurance against price spikes.
Can a fixed price increase mid-contract?
No — a true fixed-price contract locks the rate for the entire duration. However, some ”fixed-price” labelled contracts allow conditions like inflation-indexing or government-cost passthrough. Read fine print.
How does the basic fee work on a fixed contract?
Typically 2–6 €/month, same as other contract types. Some fixed-price contracts have no basic fee but compensate with a slightly higher c/kWh rate. Always compare total cost.
Should I lock in when prices are low or high?
Locking low typically saves money if prices rise. But ”low” is relative — you only know in hindsight. A common strategy is to lock 50 % at current rates (hybrid) and let 50 % float with spot.
Are intro perks available on fixed contracts?
Yes — many providers waive basic fees for 3–12 months on fixed contracts. Some offer slight rate discounts for the first 6 months. Always factor intro perks into your comparison.
Is fixed-price suitable for an apartment?
Yes if you want predictability. Absolute savings on spot vs fixed for 2 500 kWh/year is only 30–80 €/year — not huge. If you value predictable bills, fixed-price is fine for apartments.

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