LPG supply concerns and rising prices are making many households rethink their cooking options.
Induction cooktops may help save Rs 180 to Rs 1,000 per month depending on electricity bill.
Despite possible savings, many people still prefer LPG due to power cuts and traditional cooking needs.
The tensions in West Asia have resulted in disruptions in the global energy supply chain, leading to a sudden hike in fuel prices across the globe. The Indian government has issued new guidelines in the context of managing the situation. Although the government states that there is no shortage of domestic LPG cylinders in the country, the irregular supply of these cylinders has created a sense of uncertainty among people in India.
Although LPG cylinders have been the backbone of Indian cooking for decades, the recent hike in their prices has led people to think about the actual cost of cooking. Induction stoves, which were considered a backup option in the past, are now being considered a primary option. But are induction stoves really a cost-effective option compared to LPG cylinders? Let’s find out.
Effects of LPG supply issues
LPG consumers from cities like Noida, Lucknow, Delhi, Pune and others have been complaining about long queues in front of LPG distribution agencies. They say the queues are making it difficult for them to book LPG cylinders for domestic use. They are not the only ones complaining, as restaurants and commercial businesses have also been affected by the shortage.
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Reports claim that some restaurants are being forced to remove certain items from their menus in order to cope with the shortage of LPG supplies.
LPG vs induction: Comparing the cost of cooking
A standard domestic LPG cylinder has a capacity of 14.2 kilograms of gas and costs around Rs 950. However, gas stoves are only about 55 per cent efficient, meaning that a significant amount of heat is lost during cooking.
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On the other hand, induction stoves are more efficient because they use most of the electricity supplied to them directly for cooking. Studies suggest that induction stoves can save money depending on electricity tariffs. According to reports, the savings could range between Rs 180 and Rs 1,000 each month for a household.
Research by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis claims that it is cheaper to use electric stoves compared to non-subsidised LPG stoves.
Why many people still prefer LPG cylinders
Despite the potential savings offered by electric stoves, many consumers across the country still prefer LPG. One of the major reasons is the reliability of the gas supply during power cuts. Besides, the gas flame is better for controlling while cooking through traditional methods of roasting, making chapaties, and tadka.
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Although induction cooktops may be economical in terms of cost, switching over to them comes with additional costs. Most of the utensils used in Indian homes are incompatible with induction cooktops. This is particularly true for people in rural areas and in second- and third-tier cities. Therefore, people who switch over to induction cooktops may have to spend money on buying new utensils compatible with induction cooktops.
