Under the new Delhi government initiative, residents will be able to install rooftop solar panels on a streamlined, single-window platform. The Delhi Solar Portal initiative was unveiled by Chief Minister Atishi on Wednesday, which will help transform Delhiites into ‘prosumers’—those who consume power as well as generate surplus solar energy. This is also part of the Aam Aadmi Party’s target to achieve 750 MW rooftop solar capacity under its solar policy that was announced earlier this year.
The portal simplifies the process of installing solar panels by making available tools such as a solar calculator that estimates power generation, savings, and costs. It also lists approved vendors and provides the option for filling up applications online for subsidies and net metering. Consumers can install rooftop solar panels without having to visit government offices. The generators of surplus energy shall, however, get government incentives at Rs 3 per unit for systems up to 3 KW and Rs 2 per unit for capacities up to 10 KW. Similarly, group housing societies and resident welfare associations will also enjoy a corresponding incentive scheme.
Commercial and industrial users will benefit at a reduced incentive of Re 1 per unit. Installation costs for a normal 1-KW solar plant range between Rs 40,000 and Rs 60,000, which generates around 100 units monthly. National-level subsidies are available for 3-KW plants for Rs 78,000 to be complemented with Rs 2,000 per KW extra subsidy by the Delhi government for systems up to 5 KW. The move will benefit more than 400 unit-consuming households significantly and reduce their electricity bills while also helping the city of Delhi achieve clean energy requirements.
Solar portal launch highlights efforts by the city to adopt clean energy that opens doors for environmental sustainability and energy independence. The step is likely to improve participation among residents, ease solar adoption, and speed up Delhi’s transition to renewable energy.
Source: PTI