RESIDENTS in Guangzhou with low-income certificates can enjoy a 50 percent discount in water use if their monthly per capita consumption is within 7 tons of water per person.

Around 100,000 residents will benefit from the new guideline, which took effect Jan. 1, 2006.

Guangzhou increased the price of water to 1.32 yuan (US$0.16) per ton earlier this month, but low-income families can pay 0.65 yuan per ton for up to seven tons of water consumed every month. If calculated on this base, a family can save 420 yuan per year.

According to the new regulation, a family of three can consume 21 tons of low-price water, which is sufficient for one family, the water group said.

The water group also took three measures yesterday to improve its service to the underprivileged families.

The water group opened booths at its five water supply stations in five districts including Yuexiu, Haizhu and Tianhe to accept registrations from low-income families.

Families can register at the stations with low-income certificates, residency permits, an ID card and water meter bills.

The company will offer a subsidy (once for half a year) to families who share their water meters with neighbors. The subsidy is calculated based on seven tons per person, per month and 0.62 yuan per ton. The families can obtain a subsidy from the company's water supply stations.

The company also opened its www.gzszyl.gov.cn and www.gzwater-supply.com.cn Web sites for online consultation and 96968 hotline for inquiry.

Editor: Wing