Delhi Cabinet approves revised solar policy, targets free 3 KW panels for 2.30 lakh consumers

Delhi Cabinet approves revised solar policy

The Delhi Cabinet has approved a revised solar policy that aims to expand rooftop solar adoption across the capital, according to official announcements on Sunday. The policy, described as the second amendment to the Delhi Solar Energy Policy, 2023, was approved at the 40th Cabinet meeting, as stated by Power Minister Ashish Sood.

Under the revised policy, domestic consumers with an average monthly electricity consumption of up to 400 units in fiscal year 2025-26 will be eligible for rooftop solar systems of up to 3 kilowatts (kW) at zero upfront cost, subject to technical feasibility. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the policy will make solar energy more affordable and accessible and help implement Prime Minister Narendra Modi's PM Surya Ghar vision in Delhi.

The scheme combines the Centre's Rs 78,000 subsidy with an additional Rs 78,000 capital subsidy from the Delhi government. The government will also cover the difference between the subsidy amount and the tendered cost of the solar plant, ensuring that eligible consumers do not have to make an initial payment.

Subsidies and benefits

The existing electricity subsidy will continue for eligible consumers. Those using up to 200 units will continue to get a 100 per cent subsidy, while also benefiting from the electricity generated through their rooftop solar systems. A 3 kW system can generate around 300 units, and any surplus power can be supplied to the grid, for which consumers will be paid at the applicable average power purchase cost of the discom.

The government has also made maintenance easier by providing free operation and maintenance of the systems for the first five years. After that, consumers can opt for maintenance and insurance services through discoms or their empanelled agencies. The systems are expected to have a lifespan of around 25 years.

Targets and progress

Delhi has set a target of installing solar systems on 2.30 lakh rooftops and adding 500 MW of additional rooftop solar capacity by March 2027. So far, 10,073 solar systems have been installed across the city, according to the government.

Administrative processes have also been streamlined: the net metering process has been reduced from 75 days to 25 days, and application and registration fees for residential systems up to 10 kW have been waived.

Power Minister Ashish Sood said the decision will secure free electricity for the next 25 years, a claim carried by ANI. The policy approval was also reported by The Economic Times, which quoted Chief Minister Gupta on the eligibility and target details.