The Delhi Solar Energy Policy 2016 laid a strong foundation for solar adoption in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. Since its inception, the policy has facilitated the deployment of over 250 megawatts (MW) of rooftop solar and close to 1240 MW of utility-scale solar, accounting for 7.2% of Delhi’s annual electricity demand. Despite these achievements, rooftop solar adoption has faced challenges due to capital constraints, limited space, and bureaucratic procedures.
To address these obstacles and accelerate solar adoption, the Delhi government has unveiled the Delhi Solar Energy Policy 2023. The vision of this policy is to make solar energy accessible and affordable for all consumers in Delhi while promoting innovative models for adoption and creating green jobs within the NCT of Delhi.
The scope of the policy extends to any solar energy generating system with a capacity of 1 kilowatt-peak (KWp) or more, applying to all electricity consumers and entities involved in setting up or operating solar power plants in Delhi.
The policy has come into force from March 14, 2024 and will remain valid for the next three years, unless superseded or modified by subsequent policies.
The key objectives of the Delhi Solar Energy Policy 2023 include:
- Establishing Delhi as a leading state in solar adoption to reduce reliance on conventional fossil-fuel energy, thereby combating air pollution and addressing climate change.
- Minimizing average electricity prices and enhancing energy security by leveraging solar to meet Delhi’s growing electricity demand and peak loads.
- Providing access to solar energy for all consumers in Delhi, enabling savings on electricity bills and creating opportunities for income generation.
- Generating green jobs within Delhi and promoting skill development programs to empower the youth and support the expansion of solar deployment in the state.
The Delhi Solar Energy Policy 2023 aims to transform the energy landscape of the NCT of Delhi, ushering in a sustainable and resilient future.
