Valid nowPublished: 29/09/2026· Updated: 03/10/2026· Applies from: 01/10/2026· Valid until: 31/12/2026

Fuel tax cut: lower energy tax on fuel until the end of 2026

The German parliament and the Federal Council have approved a temporary tax cut on petrol and diesel. It applies from October until the end of December 2026.

What is new?

The tax on petrol and diesel drops by 14.04 cents per litre. Because VAT on that amount also disappears, the price per litre can fall by up to around 17 cents. Whether and how quickly petrol stations pass this on is not fixed.

Who is affected?

This affects everyone who drives in Germany – for example commuters or families who depend on a car. People without a car do not benefit directly.

What should you do?

You do not need to apply for anything. Compare prices at petrol stations near you – the differences can be large, especially at the start. Do not plan on the discount lasting.

When does it apply?

The tax cut applies from 1 October to 31 December 2026. A fuel price cap is also planned, by January 2027 at the latest – but no final decision has been made on that yet.

Related guide

MeaNext summarizes official information clearly. This is not legal advice. Always check the linked official source for important decisions.

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