German fuel prices fall in May as temporary tax rebate nears its end

In May 2026 the average price of Super E10 in Germany dropped to €1.9683 per litre, about 13 cents cheaper than in April, while diesel fell to €1.9727, roughly 28 cents less. The price gap between gasoline and diesel narrowed to just 0.4 cents, down from more than 15 cents a month earlier. Prices remain above the same month in 2025, but the decline is attributed to a relaxed market outlook, the end of acute diesel‑shortage fears, the newly introduced "Tankrabatt" tax discount and a fall in Brent crude from around $114 to $92 per barrel. The temporary fuel‑tax cut, introduced in early May, reduces the energy tax by 16.7 cents per litre and is expected to cost the state up to €1.6 billion; it expires at the end of June.

A consumer survey shows that only 15 % of respondents feel the rebate has eased their daily costs, with 81 % seeing little effect. Consumer groups and some politicians are urging the government to adopt permanent relief measures—such as lowering the electricity tax for households—and to consider extending the fuel‑tax discount for commuters and businesses. The expiry of the Tankrabatt coincides with the start of summer holidays, a period that traditionally sees higher fuel demand and could reverse the recent price gains.