Since the beginning of 2025, Germany has required e-invoicing in the B2B sector. For many biogas plant operators this means in practice: invoices must be exchanged in a structured electronic format – no longer just as a classic PDF to print.
With Biotaktix that has never been an issue. Since the beginning of 2025 our software has been generating e-invoices in the X-Rechnung format. The latest update now adds ZUGFeRD – and that is exactly what this article is about: what lies behind it, and what it brings you in everyday use.
Briefly explained: X-Rechnung and ZUGFeRD
An e-invoice is more than a PDF. While a regular PDF is essentially an “image” of the invoice that a person has to read, a true e-invoice contains the invoice data in a structured form that a computer can process directly – without typing or scanning.
There is a simple difference between the two common formats:
X-Rechnung is a purely structured format. The invoice consists only of data (an XML file). This is perfect for automatic downstream processing – but no one can simply “take a quick look” at such a file. In invoicing with public contracting authorities this format is mandatory.
ZUGFeRD combines both. The structured data is embedded directly into a PDF. The recipient sees a normal, readable document – and the machine‑readable data is already included in the background. The best of both worlds.
Thus every invoice remains usable for any recipient – whether the counterpart reads the data fully automatically or simply views the document.
Conclusion
The e-invoice is initially an extra hurdle for many companies. Our goal with Biotaktix is that it doesn’t feel that way. With ZUGFeRD you now have a format that combines technical correctness with everyday usability – an invoice that works for every recipient.
Another building block that makes the regulatory everyday life a little easier for biogas plant operators.
