New Delhi, September 2: In a significant move towards transforming the energy sector in Delhi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Tuesday that rooftop solar systems of up to 3 kilowatts will be installed for domestic consumers with an average consumption of 400 units, without any initial costs during the fiscal year 2025-26.
While unveiling the second amendment to the ‘Delhi Solar Energy Policy’, Gupta stated that consumers will not need to pay anything for the installation. In addition to the ₹78,000 subsidy from the central government, the Delhi government will also provide a capital subsidy of ₹78,000. Furthermore, the government will cover the difference between the subsidy and the tender cost of the solar plants through additional top-ups.
Importantly, customers using up to 200 units of electricity will not only benefit from the subsidy after installing the solar system but will also earn energy-saving incentives for the electricity they conserve.
Gupta emphasized that this initiative strengthens Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of the ‘PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme’, making it easier for average households to adopt solar systems with minimal or no financial burden. This policy aims to empower Delhi residents not just to consume electricity but also to generate it.
During a press conference held at the Delhi Secretariat, where Energy Minister Ashish Sood was also present, Gupta shared details about the second amendment to the ‘Delhi Solar Energy Policy-2023’.
Previously, customers had to make an upfront payment for solar system installation, with incentives provided in subsequent years. The new policy reverses this approach, prioritizing financial assistance in the initial phase to alleviate any economic burden on customers.
The systems installed by the government will be operated and maintained by the respective vendors for a mandatory period of five years. After this, customers will have the option to continue maintenance through the distribution company (DISCOM) for the entire lifespan of 25 years, relieving them of maintenance concerns. Eligible customers will also benefit from net metering on their monthly electricity bills.
Gupta confirmed that the existing electricity subsidy from the Delhi government will remain in place. This means eligible customers can enjoy both the electricity subsidy and savings from their rooftop solar systems. A 3-kilowatt solar system can generate approximately 300 units of electricity. If a family uses 200 units, they can profit from sending the surplus electricity back to the grid. This way, customers will not only use free electricity but also participate in its production and earn from the process.
Payments for electricity sent to the grid will be based on the average electricity purchase cost of the DISCOM. Eligible customers using up to 200 units will continue to receive the existing 100% electricity subsidy. Additionally, the policy includes incentives for energy savings from solar power for qualified customers. Payments will also be made at applicable rates for any extra solar power supplied to the DISCOM.
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