5-star HQ flies in face of frugality drive

A state-run power company is reportedly spending billions of yuan on a luxury office complex — complete with gyms, high-end restaurants and “suites” for top officials.

5-star HQ flies in face of frugality drive. [File photo]

Critics say the Guangdong Power Grid Corporation project is at odds with a central government frugality campaign targeting government departments and enterprises.

They also say the firm already has empty office space.

Guangdong Power Grid started its 2.1-billion-yuan (US$338.73 million) project in February, in Guangzhou, capital of southern province Guangdong, claiming it needed a new dispatch center.

However, the 160,000-square-meter development will also include a 33-floor office building and a 5-story conference center.

It is also set to feature 300-sq-meter suites for top officials, with lounges, bedrooms and bathrooms.

Five-star hotel standard fitness clubs, recreation centers and restaurants are also part of the plan.

The development is set to become a Guangzhou landmark, the Economic Information Daily reported yesterday.

A company official, who asked to remain anonymous, described it as an extravagant “face project” to create an impressive public image.

And the company already has two office buildings covering 100,000 square meters with empty space, he added.

A Guangdong Power Grid official surnamed Lan, who is in charge of the project, said the company will be headquartered in the complex, adding that it was footing the bill.

However, central government has stated that government departments and state-run companies must not build new offices on the pretext of other operations.

The project has been approved by parent company, China Southern Power Grid Corporation.