Why have electricity bills gone up? Key changes to your bill
An electricity bill consists of several components, each of which affects the final amount. In 2025, changes to these components are particularly noticeable:
- Active energy price – This is the main cost we pay for the electricity we use. Following the end of government support schemes for businesses, electricity prices have risen sharply. Companies that entered into long-term contracts in 2022–2023 may feel this increase particularly acutely. It is worth noting that in August 2022, energy prices on the exchange reached record levels, hitting almost PLN 1,400/MWh.
- Distribution charges – Although their level is controlled by the Energy Regulatory Office, increases are inevitable. These are mainly due to the costs of modernising and expanding the energy infrastructure.
- Capacity charge – Introduced in 2021 as a measure to ensure the country’s energy security, it was increased in 2025, which automatically led to higher bills for businesses.
- Environmental and other charges – Rising costs associated with CO₂ emissions and changes in the European Union’s climate policy also affect the final cost of energy. Businesses must factor in additional charges designed to support environmental initiatives.
Don’t wait for the next bill – act now
In the face of these changes, it is important that businesses do not remain passive. Analysing energy contracts, reviewing clauses regarding renegotiation options, or terminating an energy supply contract are steps that can help limit cost increases. It is also worth considering consulting a lawyer specialising in energy law – this is a small expense that could translate into significant savings in the future.
Why will you only notice the rise in electricity prices now?
Many businesses will only now, when they receive their bills for January 2025, notice the sharp rise in energy costs. What’s more, companies with non-standard billing cycles or delays in receiving bills may realise this even later. For some, this will come as an unpleasant surprise, especially if they haven’t analysed their contracts in detail for a long time.
Long-term electricity contracts – is there anything that can be done?
It is standard practice in the energy market to enter into long-term contracts. Many companies signed their contracts in 2022, when energy prices were exceptionally high. It may turn out that the current rates under these contracts are unfavourable compared to current market conditions.
Rising electricity prices. What should you do?
- Read your electricity contract – Check the terms of the contract carefully, particularly the clauses regarding the possibility of renegotiating or terminating the business electricity contract early.
- Renegotiating or terminating your electricity contract – In many cases, it is possible to renegotiate the terms, especially if market prices have fallen. However, it is worth remembering that early termination of an electricity contract may incur financial penalties.
- Consulting a solicitor – Energy contracts are often complex, and their general terms may contain pitfalls. Investing in professional legal advice can help you avoid costly mistakes. Often, a small outlay on a consultation can save you thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, of zlotys in energy costs.
Terminating an electricity contract – it pays to act quickly
The sooner you respond to changes in your energy bills, the better your chances of minimising losses. Analysing invoices, reviewing contracts and renegotiating terms where necessary can significantly improve your company’s financial situation. In the face of rising energy prices, conscious cost management is becoming a key element of running a business.
Do you need assistance in analysing your energy contract or terminating your electricity contract? Take advantage of the professional legal assistance offered by HWW Hewelt Wojnowski Lindner & Partners – it is an investment that can yield real savings.
Frequently asked questions
Why have my electricity bills increased in 2025?
High bills result from the lack of price freezes for the business sector and the end of government support programs. The main reasons include increases in active energy prices, distribution fees, capacity charges, and additional environmental costs.
Can I terminate my electricity contract if I signed it in 2022?
Yes, it is worth analyzing the contract for possibilities of early termination or renegotiation of terms. Contract termination may involve the obligation to pay financial penalties, therefore thorough verification of the provisions is crucial.
What can I do to reduce energy costs in my company?
You should read your contract, verify provisions regarding renegotiation, and consider invoice analysis. It is also worth consulting with a lawyer specializing in energy law, which may bring significant savings.
Why did I notice price increases only now, despite contracts being long-term?
The increases are felt now because many companies signed contracts in 2022-2023, when prices were at record levels. Additionally, companies with non-standard billing periods or delays in invoice delivery may realize the problem even later.
A matter in energy or renewables law?
That is where most conversations with a lawyer begin. A consultation is paid, PLN 600 net. You pay for a real opinion: whether you have a legal problem, what you can do about it and roughly what it costs. It ties you to nothing further, and you do not need to know the law, that part is on us.
- 1 Talk
You tell us what is going on, in your own words.
- 2 What next
We tell you your options and what it costs.
- 3 We act
You give the go-ahead and the matter is ours.
Expert in energy, commercial and business law - She has extensive experience in the areas of energy, commercial and business law, gained both at renowned Warsaw law firms and by serving as in-house lawyer at leading energy, financial and new technology companies. Her professional practice focuses on providing comprehensive legal services to corporations, managing mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions, transformations of commercial companies, and in resolving corporate disputes.
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