City to start progressive charging for water

Beijing will pilot progressive charging for residential water consumption in the first half of this year, according to the Beijing Water Authority.

Progressive charging for residential use will work on a quota basis, the Beijing Water Authority said Sunday. A consumption quota will be given to residents, from which anything over the fixed amount will be charged at twice the standard rate.

The authority said it has not yet decided on the quota or whether it will be individual-based or household-based.