Solingen’s water bills to surge by 23% in 2026—here’s why
Households in Solingen will face higher costs for water and waste services from 2026. The city plans to raise drinking water prices by nearly 23%, marking the biggest increase since 2017. Officials will present the new fee structure to the City Council on December 18, 2025, for approval.
The steepest rise comes from drinking water charges, which will jump by 22.9%. This adds roughly €33.44 net per year for an average consumer. Wastewater fees are also climbing sharply due to lower water usage, the end of a one-time budget surplus, and higher payments to water associations.
If approved, the changes will take effect in 2026. The largest increases will hit water and wastewater services, while some winter and cleaning fees will decrease. The adjustments follow years of smaller, double-digit euro rises since the last major hike in 2017.
