Hong Kong China Gas (Towngas) announced an increase in gas tariffs and fixed maintenance fees starting 1 August 2026. This increase is expected to affect most residential users, but the company has also introduced a special assistance program for vulnerable groups.
Gas Price Increase
Starting August 2026, the standard gas price will increase by 1.25 cents per megajoule, which is a 4.4% increase. The fixed monthly maintenance fee will also be increased by HK$1 to HK$11 per month. This increase aims to fund the development of the gas supply network in new areas such as the Northern Metropolis. Towngas estimates that approximately 65% of residential users will experience a monthly bill increase of no more than HK$10. As a guarantee, the company has promised not to raise the tariff and maintenance fees for the next two years.
Assistance Program for Four Groups
To alleviate the economic burden on vulnerable groups, Towngas provides a special assistance program that includes a 50% discount on gas usage, exemption from basic fees, deposits, and monthly maintenance fees, as well as free gas appliance repair services. This program is open to four categories of individuals and families.
1. Senior Citizen Assistance Program
Senior citizens aged 60 and above who are registered users and receive social assistance (Comprehensive Social Security Assistance, CSSA) are eligible to apply. They will receive a 50% discount on the first 500 megajoules of gas usage each month (equivalent to approximately 10.4 degrees), exemption from basic fees, deposits, and maintenance fees, as well as free gas appliance repair services (limited to appliances represented by Towngas) and free annual safety inspections.
2. Disabled Individual Assistance Program
Individuals with disabilities or those with family members with disabilities who receive CSSA with 100% disability certification or require continuous care are eligible to apply. The same benefits are provided: a 50% discount on the first 500 megajoules, exemption from basic fees, deposits, and maintenance fees, as well as free repair and safety inspection services. They can also get priority appointments for repairs.
3. Single Mother Assistance Program
Single mothers who receive CSSA and are registered gas users are eligible for a 50% discount on the first 500 megajoules, exemption from basic fees, deposits, and maintenance fees, as well as free gas appliance repair services.
4. Low-Income Family Assistance Program
Low-income families receiving CSSA and having family members who work with income deducted from the assistance amount are eligible to apply. They will enjoy a 50% discount on the first 500 megajoules, exemption from basic fees, deposits, and maintenance fees, as well as free gas appliance repair services.
The application process requires documents such as a rental statement, proof of public housing residence, or a letter of confirmation from the landlord. For more information, users can refer to the official Towngas website.
Conclusion
This gas price increase, although small, still affects users. However, the assistance program provided by Towngas shows the company's commitment to social responsibility. Eligible groups are advised to apply as soon as possible to reduce their financial burden.
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*Original source: [stheadline.com](https://www.stheadline.com/lifetips/3585784/%E7%85%A4%E6%B0%A3%E8%B2%BB8%E6%9C%88%E8%B5%B7%E5%8A%A0444%E9%A1%9E%E4%BA%BA%E5%8F%AF%E4%BA%AB%E5%8D%8A%E5%83%B9%E5%85%BC%E5%85%8D%E8%B2%BB%E7%B6%AD%E4%BF%AE%E7%88%90%E5%85%B7%E9%95%B7%E8%80%85%E5%9F%BA%E5%B1%A4%E5%9D%80%E5%8F%AF%E7%94%B3%E8%AB%8B)*