Zhangjiajie

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Public Utilities

Sections

1. Electricity Services

Provider

Electricity in Zhangjiajie is managed by the State Grid Corporation of China (SGCC), which is the primary electricity provider across most of China.

Application Procedure

  • Step 1: Visit the local State Grid office or use the official State Grid app (ๅ›ฝๅฎถ็”ต็ฝ‘) to apply for a new connection. Bring your passport, proof of residence (rental agreement or property ownership certificate), and a deposit fee.
  • Step 2: Fill out the application form and provide the required documents.
  • Step 3: A technician will visit your residence to set up the connection if it is not already installed.

Costs

  • Electricity Rates: Electricity is billed on a tiered system, with rates increasing as consumption rises. As of 2023:
    • Tier 1: ~0.56 RMB per kWh (for monthly usage under 210 kWh).
    • Tier 2: ~0.61 RMB per kWh (for usage between 210โ€“400 kWh).
    • Tier 3: ~0.86 RMB per kWh (for usage above 400 kWh).
  • Deposit Fee: Typically 100โ€“300 RMB, refundable upon termination of service.

Payment Methods

  • Mobile Apps: Payments can be made via the State Grid app, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.
  • In-Person: Payments can also be made at local convenience stores, banks, or the State Grid office.
  • Prepaid Meters: Some apartments use prepaid electricity meters, which require topping up via the same methods.

Local Considerations

  • Power outages are rare but may occur during extreme weather or maintenance. Itโ€™s advisable to keep a flashlight and power bank handy.
  • Be mindful of energy conservation, as higher tiers can significantly increase costs.

2. Water Services

Provider

Water supply in Zhangjiajie is managed by the Zhangjiajie Water Supply Company (ๅผ ๅฎถ็•Œไพ›ๆฐดๅ…ฌๅธ).

Application Procedure

  • Step 1: Visit the local water company office with your passport, proof of residence, and a deposit fee.
  • Step 2: Fill out the application form and schedule a technician visit if a new connection is required.

Costs

  • Water Rates: Water is relatively affordable in Zhangjiajie. As of 2023:
    • Residential water: ~2.5โ€“3 RMB per cubic meter.
    • Sewage treatment fee: ~0.8 RMB per cubic meter (added to the water bill).
  • Deposit Fee: Typically 100โ€“200 RMB, refundable upon termination of service.

Payment Methods

  • Mobile Apps: Payments can be made via Alipay, WeChat Pay, or the water companyโ€™s app.
  • In-Person: Payments can also be made at the water company office or designated payment kiosks.

Local Considerations

  • Tap water is not potable in Zhangjiajie. It is recommended to boil water or use bottled water for drinking.
  • Water pressure may vary in older buildings, especially during peak hours.

3. Gas Services

Provider

Gas services in Zhangjiajie are typically provided by the Zhangjiajie Gas Company (ๅผ ๅฎถ็•Œ็‡ƒๆฐ”ๅ…ฌๅธ).

Application Procedure

  • Step 1: Visit the gas company office with your passport, proof of residence, and a deposit fee.
  • Step 2: Fill out the application form and schedule a technician visit for installation or activation of the gas meter.

Costs

  • Gas Rates: As of 2023, residential gas costs around 2.5โ€“3 RMB per cubic meter.
  • Deposit Fee: Typically 200โ€“500 RMB, depending on the type of connection and meter.

Payment Methods

  • Mobile Apps: Payments can be made via Alipay, WeChat Pay, or the gas companyโ€™s app.
  • In-Person: Payments can also be made at the gas company office or designated kiosks.

Local Considerations

  • Gas is commonly used for cooking and heating water. Ensure your apartment has proper ventilation and a functioning gas detector for safety.
  • Regular inspections are conducted by the gas company to ensure safety compliance.

4. Internet Services

Providers

The main internet service providers in Zhangjiajie are:

  • China Telecom (ไธญๅ›ฝ็”ตไฟก)
  • China Mobile (ไธญๅ›ฝ็งปๅŠจ)
  • China Unicom (ไธญๅ›ฝ่”้€š)

Application Procedure

  • Step 1: Visit the providerโ€™s office or authorized retailer with your passport and proof of residence.
  • Step 2: Choose a plan based on your needs (e.g., speed, data limits).
  • Step 3: Schedule an installation appointment. Technicians typically install the service within 1โ€“3 days.

Costs

  • Monthly Plans: Internet plans vary based on speed and provider. Common options include:
    • 100 Mbps: ~100 RMB/month.
    • 200 Mbps: ~150 RMB/month.
    • Bundled packages (internet + mobile): Discounts are often available.
  • Installation Fee: Some providers may charge a one-time installation fee (~100โ€“300 RMB), though this is often waived during promotions.

Payment Methods

  • Mobile Apps: Payments can be made via the providerโ€™s app, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.
  • In-Person: Payments can also be made at the providerโ€™s office or authorized retailers.

Local Considerations

  • Internet speeds in Zhangjiajie are generally reliable, but rural areas may experience slower connections.
  • Wi-Fi routers are usually provided by the service provider but may require an additional deposit.

General Tips and Cultural Considerations

  1. Language Barrier: Most utility offices and service providers operate in Mandarin. Itโ€™s helpful to bring a Chinese-speaking friend or use a translation app if youโ€™re not fluent.
  2. Mobile Payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used for utility payments. Setting up these apps is highly recommended for convenience.
  3. Utility Bills: Utility bills are typically issued monthly and can be accessed online or delivered to your residence.
  4. Energy Conservation: There is a strong cultural emphasis on conserving resources. Be mindful of your usage, especially for electricity and water.
  5. Customer Service: Most utility companies have 24/7 hotlines for reporting issues. However, English-speaking support may be limited.

By understanding these details, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to manage public utilities in Zhangjiajie. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!