NEW DELHI: State-run oil marketing companies are considering expanding the use of lightweight 10-kg LPG cylinders beyond domestic consumers, with the cylinders likely to be sold at commercial LPG rates if approved.The move could benefit migrant workers, tenants, students, street vendors, cafes and food kiosks that need LPG but lack space for larger 19-kg commercial cylinders. The HDPE-based composite cylinders may be sold through gas agencies and select retail outlets.The cylinders are already available on a limited scale for domestic users under different brand names: HPCL’s HP Gas Ojas, IndianOil’s Indane Xtralight, and BPCL’s Bharatgas Lite.OMCs currently market 19 kg, 5 kg and 2 kg cylinders for commercial users and consumers without domestic LPG connections. Commercial LPG costs about 133% more than domestic cooking gas. In Delhi, a 14.2 kg domestic cylinder costs Rs 942, while a 19 kg commercial cylinder costs Rs 2,930. A 5-kg cylinder is priced at Rs 808.5.Made using advanced composite technology, the 10-kg cylinder has a three-layer construction and is nearly 50% lighter than a conventional steel LPG cylinder, making it easier to carry, transport and handle.Unlike steel cylinders, these are easier to carry to upper floors. Their translucent body lets consumers check gas levels without a gauge, making refills easier to plan,” an oil company executive said.
