The economics ministry will begin to collect additional water consumption fees from heavy water users in 2016. The ministry’s decision on Friday means that heavy users will be subject to a surcharge of between 10 and 30% on their water bills.
This will be the government's first step to make existing water rates more reasonable. Rates are currently as cheap as around NT$10 (US$0.3) per cubic meter.
In addition to the surcharge, there will also be measures aimed at awarding water saving practices, including a planned reduction of the water fees by up to 60% for eligible users.