On May 23, 2025, the Delhi government announced a subsidy scheme for households installing rooftop solar panels, aiming to promote clean and affordable energy in the national capital. The initiative targets 2,30,000 households for solar panel installations over the next three years.
Subsidy Structure
Financial Incentives for Solar Adoption
The subsidy includes ₹78,000 from the central government and an additional ₹30,000 from the Delhi government for each 3 kW solar panel installation, totaling ₹1,08,000. Part of the Free Electricity Scheme, the subsidy is now standardized at ₹10,000 per kW, a significant increase from the previous range of ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 per kW.
Budget Allocation
Funding Challenges
The scheme is backed by a ₹50 crore budget, intended to support 2,30,000 installations, equating to approximately ₹2,174 per unit. Experts have raised concerns about a potential financial shortfall, questioning the scheme’s feasibility given the limited funds allocated for such an ambitious target.
Projected Savings for Households
Evaluating Economic Benefits
The Delhi government claims households can save up to ₹4,200 per month on electricity bills. However, experts like Binit Das from the Centre for Science and Environment argue that these savings may be overstated, calling for further analysis to validate the projections.
Implementation Hurdles
Supply Chain and Workforce Needs
Achieving the target of 2.3 lakh installations faces significant challenges, including the need for a robust supply chain and a trained workforce. Without these, meeting the installation goals within the stipulated timeframe could prove difficult.
Financial Partnerships
Easing Adoption Through Loans
To enhance the scheme’s effectiveness, the Delhi government plans to collaborate with financial institutions to offer accessible loan options. This will help households adopt solar energy without significant upfront costs, aligning with the goal of widespread renewable energy adoption.
Policy Support
Amended Delhi Solar Policy
The initiative follows amendments to the Delhi Solar Policy 2023, allowing domestic consumers to avail subsidies of up to ₹30,000 per month. This policy change aims to reduce reliance on the power grid and promote renewable energy in the capital.
Below is a summary of the rooftop solar subsidy scheme:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Announcement Date | May 23, 2025 |
| Target | 2,30,000 households in 3 years |
| Subsidy | ₹1,08,000 per 3 kW (₹78,000 central + ₹30,000 Delhi) |
| Budget | ₹50 crore |
| Savings Claim | Up to ₹4,200/month per household |
| Policy | Amended Delhi Solar Policy 2023 |
Promoting a Sustainable Future
Delhi’s Renewable Energy Vision
The rooftop solar subsidy scheme reflects Delhi’s commitment to clean energy and sustainability. Despite challenges, the initiative, supported by financial partnerships and policy amendments, aims to transform the energy landscape of the national capital.
Key Highlights
- Announced on May 23, 2025, targeting 2,30,000 households for solar installations.
- Offers ₹1,08,000 subsidy per 3 kW solar panel installation.
- Backed by a ₹50 crore budget, raising concerns about financial feasibility.
- Claims savings of ₹4,200/month, though experts question accuracy.
- Partners with financial institutions for accessible loans.
- Supported by amendments to the Delhi Solar Policy 2023.