The Two Main Options
When you sign an electricity contract in Sweden or Norway, you essentially have two choices: a fixed price or a variable price (spot price). Your choice affects your electricity bill every month for the duration of the contract.
Fixed Electricity Price
With a fixed contract, you pay a predetermined price per kWh during the contract period — typically 1, 2, or 3 years.
Advantages: - Predictable electricity bill every month - Protection against price spikes during cold winters - Easy budgeting — you know exactly what you pay
Disadvantages: - Misses the benefits when spot prices fall - Often more expensive over time — the supplier charges for security - Often has lock-in periods and cancellation fees
Variable Electricity Price (Spot Price)
With a variable contract, you pay the market price — Nord Pool's hourly spot price — plus a small markup to the supplier.
Advantages: - Lower cost over time (historically on average) - Benefit from cheap periods, e.g., during high wind power production - Can be combined with price alerts for smart consumption
Disadvantages: - Unpredictable — can become very expensive during crisis periods - Requires engagement to optimize consumption
What Does History Say?
Historically, variable pricing has worked out better for most households. But periods like winter 2021/2022 show that things can go badly wrong quickly. For those who want peace of mind and don't want to think about electricity prices, a shorter fixed contract can be right — especially if spot prices are expected to be high.
SpotPris Helps You Regardless of Your Choice
If you have a variable contract, SpotPris helps you shift consumption to the right hours. If you have a fixed contract, you can still see what you "would have paid" — and plan for your next contract decision.