China's State Development and Reform Commission is increasing electricity prices by an average of 1.4 fen, per kilowatt-hour. Electricity prices in China currently average about half a yuan, or 50 cents, per unit. 
 
To discourage inefficient use of electricity, it has also banned the granting of cheap power prices by local governments.

Electricity prices in the west of the country are a little higher than those in the central and eastern regions.

The price of electricity used in agricultural production and to produce chemical fertilizer will remain unchanged.

Industries that are heavy users of electricity will face higher prices for excessive consumption.

For electricity used by households, the commission calls for hearings before any price adjustment. 
 
(CRI May 9, 2004)