Solar Rooftop Subsidy in Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India, is rapidly moving towards renewable energy solutions to combat its air pollution and energy challenges. As part of this effort, the Delhi government, in collaboration with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), has introduced a solar rooftop subsidy scheme. This initiative aims to make solar energy more accessible and affordable for the residents of Delhi, thereby reducing the dependency on conventional energy sources and contributing to a cleaner environment.

Solar Rooftop Subsidy Scheme

The Delhi government’s solar rooftop subsidy scheme is part of the broader Rooftop Solar Programme Phase II, which is designed to promote the installation of grid-connected rooftop solar systems. The scheme provides financial assistance to reduce the initial cost of installation, making it more affordable for households and group housing societies to adopt solar energy.

Key Features of the Subsidy Scheme

• Central Financial Assistance (CFA): The MNRE provides a substantial subsidy to reduce the upfront cost of solar rooftop systems. This subsidy is a percentage of the benchmark cost, which is periodically revised by the MNRE.
• Eligibility: The subsidy is available to residential consumers, including individual households, group housing societies (GHS), and residential welfare associations (RWA). It is not applicable to commercial or industrial consumers.
• Implementation: The scheme is implemented through empaneled vendors who are authorized by the Delhi DISCOMs.

Subsidy Rates

The following table outlines the subsidy rates for rooftop solar systems in Delhi:

Solar System Capacity	Subsidy Rate	Applicable Sectors
1 kW to 3 kW	40% of the benchmark cost	Residential
Above 3 kW to 10 kW	40% for first 3 kW, 20% thereafter	Residential, Group Housing Societies
Above 10 kW	20% of the benchmark cost	Group Housing Societies/ RWAs

Note: The benchmark cost is set by the MNRE and is subject to revisions based on market conditions.

Additional Incentives by the Delhi Government

In addition to the central subsidy, the Delhi government offers additional incentives:

• State Capital Subsidy: A capital subsidy of Rs. 2,000 per kW, up to a maximum of Rs. 10,000 per consumer, is provided. This subsidy is credited directly to the consumer’s electricity bill after the solar system is commissioned.
• Generation-Based Incentive (GBI): Residential consumers are eligible for a GBI of Rs. 3 per kWh for systems up to 3 kW and Rs. 2 per kWh for systems above 3 kW, for five years from the date of commissioning.

How to Avail the Subsidy

Residents of Delhi can avail of the solar rooftop subsidy by following these steps:

1. Choose an Empaneled Vendor: Select a vendor from the list provided by the Delhi DISCOMs.

2. Submit an Application: The vendor will assist you in submitting an application to the DISCOM for the subsidy.

3. Installation: Once the application is approved, the vendor will install the rooftop solar system.

4. Inspection and Subsidy Disbursement: After installation, the DISCOM will inspect the system. Upon successful inspection, the subsidy amount is disbursed directly to the vendor, reducing the cost for the consumer.

Conclusion

Delhi’s solar rooftop subsidy scheme is an excellent opportunity for residents to transition to renewable energy. By taking advantage of the subsidies and incentives offered by the central and state governments, you can significantly reduce the cost of your solar installation, making clean energy more affordable and accessible.

For those considering a switch to solar energy, now is the time to act. Contact your local DISCOM or visit the MNRE website for more information. Join the solar movement and contribute to a greener, more sustainable Delhi.

FAQs

1: Who is eligible for the solar rooftop subsidy in Delhi?
A: The subsidy is available to residential consumers, including individual households, group housing societies, and RWAs. Commercial and industrial sectors are not eligible.

2: How much subsidy can I get for a 5 kW solar rooftop system?
A: For a 5 kW system, you will receive a 40% subsidy on the first 3 kW and a 20% subsidy on the remaining 2 kW.

3: Is there an additional incentive for installing solar panels in Delhi?
A: Yes, the Delhi government provides a state capital subsidy of Rs. 2,000 per kW (up to Rs. 10,000) and a generation-based incentive (GBI) of Rs. 3 per kWh for up to 3 kW systems and Rs. 2 per kWh for systems above 3 kW.

4: What is the process to apply for the subsidy?
A: You need to apply through an empaneled vendor who will handle the application process with the DISCOM.

5: What are the ongoing costs after the installation of the solar system?
A: While the subsidy reduces the initial installation cost, any ongoing maintenance costs are typically borne by the consumer. Some vendors offer maintenance services as part of the installation package.