Heating with a heat pump is considered efficient and climate-friendly — but did you know that there is also a separate electricity tariff for this? There is more to the term heat pump power than just a low price. Anyone who uses it can save money in a targeted manner and at the same time reduce the load on the power grid. Find out exactly how this works and when the switch is really worthwhile here.

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What is the heat pump flow?

Heat pump electricity is a special electricity tariff for households that operate their heating via an electric heat pump. It is billed separately from normal household electricity and is often subject to certain controls by the network operator. Heat pump electricity is therefore a cheaper alternative to household electricity and offers financial benefits, particularly with high heating energy consumption.

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How does a heat pump tariff work?

A heat pump tariff works through a controlled supply of electricity, which allows the network operator to temporarily switch off the heat pump to relieve the power grid. In return, households receive discounted electricity prices compared to normal household electricity.

Heat pump tariffs are part of load management: The network operator can interrupt the power supply to the heat pump at certain times (blackout periods) and release it again (release times). During this time, the heat pump remains switched off, but it can usually be easily bridged by a buffer tank or the inertia of the heating system.

Many tariffs also differentiate between High tariff (HT) and Low tariff (NT), which provide particularly cheap electricity at night and during periods of low consumption. A separate electricity meter for the heat pump is usually required.

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Requirements and registration of heat pump electricity

The purchase of heat pump electricity is subject to certain conditions, which may vary depending on the provider and tariff. However, the following requirements usually apply:

• Existence of a heat pump: A heat pump must be installed ready for use. The energy supplier usually requires proof, for example through a start-up report or a separate electricity meter for the heat pump.
• Technical requirements: Many providers make the heat pump tariff dependent on technical conditions. These include certain performance limits, connection conditions or a controllable consumption device. The aim is trouble-free and efficient operation of the heat pump.
• Contract commitment: Heat pump electricity may only be used to operate the heat pump. There is often a minimum contract period or there are special notice periods. Use for household electricity is generally not permitted.
• Regional availability: Not every electricity provider offers heat pump tariffs in all regions. It is therefore advisable to search local suppliers or comparison portals for available tariffs.

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How much does a heat pump electricity meter cost?

A separate meter for heat pump electricity costs between 100 and 300 euros. The exact costs depend on whether it is a simple two-tariff meter (HT/NT) or a modern digital meter with a control function. In addition, there may be installation costs by the electrician, which, depending on the effort Another 100 to 200 euros can amount to. In many cases, the network operator takes over the installation and sets the meter for an annual rental fee of around 20 to 40 euros available.

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How much does heat pump electricity cost?

Heat pump electricity currently costs 25 to 30 cents per kilowatt hour (As of May 2025). By way of comparison, household electricity is currently around 30 to 40 cents/kWh. Heat pump electricity can therefore be up to 10 cents/kWh cheaper, making savings of up to 25% possible.

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When is heat pump electricity worthwhile?

Heat pump electricity is usually worthwhile From an electricity consumption of around 4,000 to 5,000 kWh per year, which is usually achieved with an average heat pump in a single-family home. The higher the consumption, the stronger the effect of the cheaper tariff.

Here is a calculation example with a consumption of 6,000 kWh:

In this case, you would save around 480€ per year and thus reduce heating costs by around 22%.

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Why is heat pump electricity cheaper than normal household electricity?

heat pump electricity is cheaper than household electricity, because it can be controlled from the point of view of the network operator and is used for network purposes. This allows the operator to disconnect the heat pump from the grid when needed and avoid peak loads. Electricity providers offer price reductions for this flexibility.

In addition, heat pump tariffs often have reduced network charges and concession fees, as electricity is used exclusively for heating purposes. In certain cases, charges such as the offshore grid levy or the cogeneration levy are also completely omitted. Because the price per kilowatt hour consists of fewer components, heat pump electricity is structurally cheaper.

Another effect: Since there is also less value added tax on the lower price components, there is an additional advantage over the household electricity tariff.

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Find cheap heat pump electricity rates

Cheap heat pump tariffs can be found on comparison portals or directly from electricity providers. Two details are important for the search:

• Counter type: There must be a separate electricity meter for the heat pump — either as a single or dual rate meter. The type of meter can be found on the electricity bill or can be inquired from the network operator.
• Annual consumption: The electricity consumption of the heat pump in kWh per year is required to compare tariffs. Two-rate meters must have values for high tariff (HT) and low tariff (NT). If no value is available, a consumption estimate helps.

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Pay attention to tariff conditions

When comparing heat pump electricity tariffs, the rules are similar to those for household electricity — with a few special features:

• Don't just filter by price guarantee: Otherwise, cheap rates are often out of the selection. First compare, then make targeted decisions.
• Get personal offers: The postal code is not always sufficient for heat pump electricity — it is better to provide the exact address or ask the provider directly.
• Check primary care providers separately: Comparison portals do not always show correct basic care rates. Check the local provider's website or call for clarification.

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What are the advantages and disadvantages of heat pump electricity?

Heat pump electricity offers the advantage of a significantly lower working price compared to household electricity and supports grid stability. This requires a separate meter and may result in blackouts. However, the financial benefits usually outweigh them, especially when there is a high demand for heating power.

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Who is heat pump electricity worthwhile for?

Heat pump electricity is worthwhile for anyone who operates their heat pump with grid electricity and consumes over 5,000 kWh annually. Anyone who has a separate meter and accepts flexible operating hours can benefit from significantly lower electricity prices. The tariff is particularly profitable for households without their own PV system.

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