HPCL, IOCL introduce 5kg, 10kg LPG cylinders in Chennai

New LPG cylinder sizes hit Chennai market

Two of India's largest oil marketing companies, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), have launched 5kg and 10kg LPG cylinders in Chennai. The new sizes are now available at select distributors across the city.

Consumers looking for smaller cooking gas options can now choose between the standard 14.2kg cylinder and these lighter alternatives. The move comes as a response to shifting household needs and urban living constraints.

Why smaller cylinders?

The introduction of 5kg and 10kg cylinders addresses a long-standing demand from consumers who do not require the full 14.2kg capacity. Many households in Chennai, particularly those with smaller families or limited kitchen space, have found the standard cylinder inconvenient.

For college students, working professionals living in shared accommodations, and senior citizens living alone, the smaller cylinders offer a practical solution. They are easier to handle, require less storage space, and reduce the upfront cost of a refill. Portability is another key advantage — the 5kg cylinder can be carried by hand without assistance.

Booking and pricing details

Officials from HPCL and IOCL confirmed that the booking process for the new cylinders will mirror the existing system. Consumers can book through the company's mobile apps, websites, or by calling their local distributor. Delivery charges are expected to be similar to those for the standard cylinder.

Pricing for the 5kg and 10kg cylinders has not been officially announced yet. However, industry sources indicate the rates will be proportionally lower than the 14.2kg cylinder, making them an economical choice for light users. A security deposit for the smaller cylinder is also expected to be lower.

Who can buy and what to expect

The new cylinders are available to both existing LPG customers and new connections. Existing customers can request a switch to the smaller size through their distributor. New customers can opt for the 5kg or 10kg cylinder at the time of connection.

Both HPCL and IOCL have assured adequate stock availability across Chennai. They have also instructed distributors to prioritise delivery for these cylinders, given the expected demand from specific consumer segments. The companies are likely to expand the offering to other cities if the Chennai rollout proves successful.

Industry analysts view this as a strategic move to capture a broader customer base, especially in urban markets where smaller households are becoming more common. The initiative also aligns with the government's push for cleaner cooking fuel under the Ujjwala scheme.

Consumers in Chennai can now visit their nearest HPCL or IOCL distributor to inquire about the new cylinder sizes. The companies have not specified a timeline for a nationwide rollout, but the Chennai launch is seen as a pilot for wider adoption.