官方通报“重庆燃气收费异常”:拟处罚金810万

Core Viewpoint - The Chongqing Gas Group has been found to have serious issues with gas billing practices, leading to a proposed fine of 8.1 million yuan due to inadequate rectification efforts following previous violations [1][5][6] Summary by Relevant Sections Investigation Findings - Since January 2025, citizens have reported abnormal gas billing by Chongqing Gas Group, prompting an investigation by the Chongqing Market Supervision Administration and the Economic Information Commission [1] - The investigation revealed that the company failed to learn from past mistakes and did not implement effective corrective measures, resulting in ongoing issues such as chaotic meter reading cycles and improper billing practices [1][5] Specific Issues Identified - Meter Reading Cycle Issues: From May 2024 to January 2025, the company had irregular meter reading cycles, with 7.54% of cycles being less than 25 days or exceeding 90 days, leading to fluctuating gas bills for users [1] - Improper Estimation Practices: - "Zero estimation" was noted, where 227,200 households had their gas usage estimated as zero for two months, resulting in a sudden three-month bill that confused users [2] - "High estimation" practices were also identified, affecting 31,100 instances, with an overestimation of 711,100 cubic meters and a pre-collection amount of approximately 1.56 million yuan [2][3] - Incorrect Meter Readings: Errors in meter readings led to incorrect billing for 1,739 households, involving 126,700 cubic meters and an amount of 278,200 yuan [3] Operational Challenges - The company increased its meter readers by 607 since April 2024, but the workforce remains insufficient, with each reader averaging over 4,500 households per month, leading to quality issues in meter reading [4] - The preparation for adjusting billing cycles was inadequate, resulting in 11,200 users receiving two bills in January 2025, causing confusion and complaints [5] Regulatory Actions - The Chongqing Market Supervision Administration plans to impose a total fine of 8.1 million yuan on Chongqing Gas Group for its violations of consumer rights [5][6] - A special task force will be established to oversee the company's rectification efforts over the next three months [6]