*Arvind Kejriwal’s pioneering ‘Delhi Solar Policy’ reaches new heights; CM Atishi launches one-of-a-kind ‘Solar Portal’ for consumers*
*Citizens can avail subsidies, get rooftop solar panels installed, and apply for generation-based incentives while sitting at home through solar.delhi.gov.in: CM Atishi*
*Even those residents who consume more than 400 units of electricity per month will be able to get zero bills through Delhi Solar Portal: CM Atishi*
*Delhi Solar Portal will be a gamechanger in achieving the target of 25% of Delhi’s total energy consumption through solar power by 2027: CM Atishi*
*Target has been set to generate 750 MW of electricity through rooftop solar panels: CM Atishi*
*Solar calculator available on the portal will show how much electricity can be generated by installing rooftop solar panels*
*Under the policy, households installing solar panels will see their electricity bills reduced to zero, while commercial and industrial consumers will see their bills halved: CM Atishi*
*Installing rooftop solar panels will not only bring electricity bills down to zero but also allow consumers to earn money for every unit of electricity generated: CM Atishi*
*Delhi will be the only government in the country to provide generation-based incentives to those installing solar panels*
*Cost incurred in installing solar panels under the Delhi Solar Policy will be recovered within four years*
NEW DELHI;20.11.24-Taking a giant leap in renewable energy adoption, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government under Arvind Kejriwal’s guidance has launched a one-of-a-kind ‘Solar Portal’ to make rooftop solar installations accessible and convenient for Delhiites. The portal, accessible at solar.delhi.gov.in, is a key step toward realizing the ambitious goals of the Delhi Solar Policy, enabling citizens to transition to solar energy effortlessly.
Launching the ‘Solar Portal’, Chief Minister Atishi emphasized that through the Delhi Solar Portal, citizens can now avail subsidies, get rooftop solar panels installed, and apply for generation-based incentives—all from the comfort of their homes. This portal simplifies the process and empowers residents to take charge of their energy needs, added CM Atishi. A key highlight of the initiative is its inclusivity. Even households consuming more than 400 units of electricity per month can achieve zero electricity bills by utilizing the benefits available through the Delhi Solar Portal.
The launch of the portal is a significant step toward achieving the AAP government’s target of fulfilling 25% of Delhi’s total energy consumption through solar power by 2027. As part of this mission, the government has set an ambitious target of generating 750 MW of electricity through rooftop solar installations across the city. A unique feature of the Solar Portal is the solar calculator, which enables users to determine the potential energy generation and savings from rooftop solar installations. This user-friendly tool is designed to encourage wider participation in Delhi’s solar revolution by providing a clear picture of the financial and environmental benefits.
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, while launching the ‘Delhi Solar Portal’, reiterated the government’s commitment to clean and non-polluting energy. Speaking at the event, she stated, “The Delhi Government has always been committed to clean and non-polluting energy. As you know, Delhi is the only state in the country that has shut down all thermal power plants within its boundaries to prevent its citizens from suffering due to pollution.”
Taking this initiative forward, the Delhi government launched the Delhi Solar Policy on March 14, 2024, with the aim of introducing clean, non-polluting, and sustainable energy to the city. CM Atishi explained, “Under this policy, an ambitious target has been set to generate 25% of Delhi’s total energy consumption through solar power by 2027.”
She further elaborated on the two key components of the policy—Delhi’s power distribution companies (DISCOMs) are required to purchase an additional 3,750 MW of solar power over the next three years under various power purchase agreements. A target has been set to generate 750 MW of electricity through rooftop solar panels.
Explaining the rooftop solar component, the Chief Minister stated, “Rooftop solar involves installing solar panels on the rooftops of homes, offices, and other buildings to produce electricity. To achieve this, the Delhi government has already initiated a major step by planning to install rooftop solar panels on all government buildings, including schools, hospitals, the Delhi Secretariat, and offices of various departments. This process has already entered the tendering stage. Additionally, citizens are being encouraged to install rooftop solar panels on their private homes.”
Addressing common queries regarding electricity consumption, CM Atishi mentioned, “A common question asked is about those who consume more than 400 units of electricity since the Delhi government provides free electricity up to 200 units and subsidies for 200-400 units. For such consumers, the Delhi Solar Policy offers a solution, enabling them to reduce their electricity bills to zero by switching to solar energy. To make this process even simpler, the government has launched the Delhi Solar Portal.”
“This portal serves as a single-window solution for all individuals who wish to install solar panels on their rooftops. It provides comprehensive information about solar panel installation. The portal’s URL is solar.delhi.gov.in. It includes all details about the Delhi Solar Policy, the benefits of rooftop solar panels, the process of availing subsidies, and a list of empaneled vendors along with their rates. Citizens no longer need to visit government offices to access these services,” shared the Chief Minister.
She further explained, “When you install rooftop solar panels, you also become eligible for net metering. Net metering means if you consume 400 units of electricity but generate 300 units from solar power, you will only need to pay for 100 units. The application for net metering can also be submitted directly through the portal, eliminating the need to visit electricity company offices or fill out separate forms. Additionally, applications for subsidies provided by the Delhi government can also be submitted on this portal.”
“The portal also includes a solar calculator, which allows users to input details such as their roof size, location, and area to estimate how much solar energy can be generated and the capacity of solar panels they can install,” she added.
Highlighting the financial benefits of the Delhi Solar Policy, CM Atishi said, “The Delhi government has introduced a unique scheme wherein consumers generating more electricity than they consume can earn money from the government. Residential consumers will receive Rs 2 per unit as a generation-based incentive, while commercial and industrial units will receive Rs 1 per unit. This means that not only will consumers eliminate their electricity bills by installing rooftop solar panels, but they will also earn money every month for the surplus energy they generate.”
Concluding her address, the Chief Minister said, “This policy is expected to help Delhi achieve its target of generating 750 MW of solar power and establish the city as a leader in rooftop solar energy across the nation. The Delhi government is confident that the people of Delhi, known for leading in various fields, will also take the lead in adopting rooftop solar energy.”
*What is Delhi Solar Portal?*
The Delhi Government has launched the Delhi Solar Portal, a comprehensive online platform designed to facilitate the adoption of rooftop solar installations for residents and businesses in the capital. This initiative aligns with the Delhi Solar Energy Policy, aiming to achieve a cumulative rooftop solar capacity of 750 MW within three years.
*Key Features of the Delhi Solar Portal:*
*Centralized Information Hub:* The portal provides detailed information on the Delhi Solar Energy Policy, including benefits of rooftop solar systems, subsidy structures, and related regulations.
*Online Applications:* Users can apply for net metering and access both the Delhi Government's capital subsidy and Generation-Based Incentive (GBI) through the portal, eliminating the need for physical visits to multiple offices.
*Solar Calculator:* An interactive tool allows users to input basic data such as monthly electricity consumption, rooftop area, and desired solar installation capacity. The calculator then provides estimates on installation costs, applicable subsidies, monthly GBI, potential savings on electricity bills, and the payback period.
Vendor Directory: The portal lists empaneled vendors, assisting consumers in selecting reputable service providers for their solar installations.
*Economic Incentives Available:*
Generation-Based Incentive (GBI): For five years post-installation, consumers receive financial incentives based on the amount of solar energy generated:
Residential consumers up to 3 kW: ₹3 per kWh
Residential consumers between 3–10 kW: ₹2 per kWh
Group Housing Societies (GHS) up to 500 kW: ₹2 per kWh
Commercial and industrial consumers (up to 200 MW): ₹1 per kWh
Capital Subsidy: A one-time subsidy of ₹2,000 per kW, capped at ₹10,000 per consumer, is available for residential customers, supplementing the Central Government's subsidy.
*Application Process:*
*Registration:* Consumers register on the Delhi Solar Portal and submit applications for net metering, capital subsidy, and GBI.
*Processing:* The portal streamlines the application process, coordinating with relevant departments to expedite approvals.
*Installation:* Upon approval, consumers can proceed with the installation through empaneled vendors.
*Incentive Disbursement:* Post-installation, the GBI is adjusted against the consumer's electricity bill. Any excess GBI is credited directly to the consumer's bank account within seven days of the billing cycle. The capital subsidy is applied to the first electricity bill after commissioning the rooftop solar system.
*Impact and Benefits:*
The Delhi Solar Portal simplifies the adoption of solar energy, making it more accessible and financially attractive. By reducing electricity bills and providing additional income through GBIs, the initiative promotes environmental sustainability and economic benefits for Delhi's residents and businesses.
*GOALS OF DELHI SOLAR POLICY:*
i). Delhi Solar Policy has two main goals:
Reduce Delhi’s air pollution and fight climate change by establishing Delhi as a leading state for solar adoption across India.
ii). Help fight inflation by bringing the electricity bills of non-subsidized residential consumers to ZERO and for commercial/industrial consumers to 50% of their current bill.
iii). The target of Delhi Solar Policy is to increase the total installed solar capacity of Delhi to 4,500 MW by March 2027 i.e. by 3 times of the current capacity of 1500 MW in only 3 years. This includes 750 MW of rooftop solar plants installations in Delhi and the 3750 MW through utility scale solar plants installed outside Delhi by 2027.
iv). As a result, around 20% of Delhi’s electricity consumption will come from solar power by 2027 – one of the highest in India.
v). Delhi government will spend Rs 570 Crores towards the implementation of Delhi Solar Policy 2024.
*KEY FEATURES OF DELHI SOLAR POLICY:*
Delhi Solar Policy is the most-consumer friendly solar policy in India. It provides the following 5 financial incentives to all residential consumers:
Generation Based Incentives (GBI): For every unit of solar power generated, Delhi govt will offer a GBI of Rs 3 for small rooftop plants (upto 3 kW) and Rs 2 for larger plants (3 to 10kW). Delhi is the only government in India that offers GBI and that too for 5 years from the date of installation. Many hurdles in receiving GBI have been removed under the new policy:
There is no conditionality of minimum generation to receive GBI which existed in the 2016 policy.
Amount under GBI will be adjusted against the monthly electricity bill of the consumer. Any excess amount will be deposited into the consumer’s bank account by the DISCOM every month. Earlier, GBI amount was transferred only twice a year.
Capital subsidy: For the first time, Delhi government will provide a capital subsidy to residential consumers of Rs. 2,000 per kW of installation up to a maximum of Rs 10,000 per consumer. This will be over and above the capital subsidy of the Central government.
Net Metering: Under ‘Net Metering’, the solar power generated gets offset with the electricity consumed from the grid. So let’s say if a household has consumed 400 units and generated 100 units of solar power, it will be billed only for 300 units. This allows consumers to benefit from reduced electricity bills.
Roll-over of excess energy units: After net metering, which happens every month, the excess solar units left will be rolled-over into subsequent billing cycles for up to 12 months (until close of every financial year).
Additional income: At the end of the year, in case the solar power generated is more than the consumer’s annual electricity demand, the consumer will earn money for the same from your DISCOM.
Currently, around 70% of Delhi’s residential consumers get ZERO electricity bill (less than 200 units consumption/month). By installing a rooftop plant under the new Policy, partially-subsidized and unsubsidized consumers too can get ZERO bill every month from the first month itself. In addition, they will get a monthly income of Rs 700-900 through Delhi’s govt’s Generation Based Incentive (GBI) and a total return of investment (ROI) in 4 years.
For example:
i). Let’s say a residential consumer's average monthly consumption is 360 units – so he/she is a partially subsidized consumer.
ii). The consumer installs a 2kW rooftop solar plant at approx. cost of Rs 90,000 with taxes and subsidy included.
iii). The consumer will start getting ZERO electricity bill right away (savings of ~ Rs 1370 per month) as well as a GBI benefit of approx. Rs 700 per month. Total annual savings will be Rs 24,000.
iv). Since the consumer spent Rs 90,000 initially, return on investment is 4 years. But the consumer will continue enjoying the ZERO bill for the life of the solar plant ~ 25 years.
Apart from residential consumers, Delhi government has decided to extend GBI for commercial/industrial consumers too for the first time (for the first 200 MW of installations in Delhi). They will receive an incentive of Rs 1/unit of solar power generated for 5 years in addition to the benefits of net metering, roll over of excess units and additional income described above. As a result, an average commercial or industrial consumer in Delhi can save nearly 50% on their existing electricity bill and obtain a return of investment (ROI) on rooftop plants in 4 years.
Group Housing Societies and Residential Welfare Associations will continue to receive a GBI of Rs 2 per unit of solar power as was the case in the 2016 solar policy.
Features like Group Net Metering, Virtual Net Metering and RESCO model will continue under the new Delhi Solar Policy as well.
Note: Under RESCO model, a large customer (typically with >25kW demand) doesn’t have to invest in a solar plant but enters into a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the solar developer (RESCO - Renewable Energy Service Company) to purchase electricity at a set tariff for a fixed period of time.
Under the Delhi Solar Policy 2024, some new innovative deployment models will be introduced to address challenges faced by consumers who wish to install solar plants but have constraint of funds or rooftop space that they own:
1). Community solar:
For the first time in the country, ‘Community solar’ model will be set in place. It will enable consumers who do not have a suitable roof for installing a solar plant to be part of a community owned solar system installed at a third-party location and get all its benefits like GBI, net-metering etc.
2). Hybrid RESCO model:
This model will allow even smaller consumers (not covered by the traditional RESCO model) who do not have funds but have viable roof space to benefit from cheap solar energy. A Tripartite Agreement will be entered into between RESCO developer, Discom and Consumer. The Discom will collect payment from the Consumer and pass it on to the Developer. The Consumer will benefit from cheap solar power along with net-metering benefits.
3). Peer to peer trading:
For the first time in the country, a model for peer to peer trading of solar energy will also be set in place. It will enable owners of solar energy systems to sell their excess generated electricity in real time to other consumers in Delhi via a P2P energy trading platform.
Government buildings mandate:
Under the new Solar policy, all existing government buildings with a rooftop area more than 500 sq.m. will have to mandatorily install solar plants within the next 3 years.
Out-of-state Solar plants:
Apart from rooftop solar plants, Delhi government will also aggressively increase the procurement of solar power from utility scale solar plants outside Delhi. Delhi is among the first states in India to participate in tendering for RE-RTC (Renewable Energy – Round the Clock) power – an innovative model that combines solar, wind and battery to provide round the clock power at very low prices. So far, 1250 MW is already at tendering stage.
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*BJP-ruled Centre failing at maintaining law & order despite it being its only job in Delhi: CM Atishi*
*Shootings, extortion, and murders have become a routine in Delhi, but Home Minister Amit Shah is busy with election rallies: CM Atishi*
*Instead of engaging in politics, Home Minister should fulfil his responsibility of ensuring Delhi’s safety; his failure has turned Delhi into a crime capital: CM Atishi*
*CM Atishi Meets Family of 28-Year-Old Murder Victim Manish in Sundar Nagri*
*Delhi Government to provide financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh to victim's family*
*No amount of money can compensate for a loved one’s absence; but we hope our help will give some strength to the family: CM Atishi*
*28-Year-Old Manish was murdered for opposing harassment of young girl in Sundar Nagri*
NEW DELHI;20.11.24-The law and order situation in Delhi is deteriorating, and the BJP-led Central Government, which is responsible for Delhi’s security, has failed miserably in maintaining it. This failure has emboldened criminals to such an extent that a 28-year-old man, Manish, was killed in Sundar Nagri recently for opposing the harassment of a girl.
On Wednesday, Chief Minister Atishi visited the victim’s family in Sundar Nagri to offer her condolences. She announced that the Delhi Government would provide ₹10 lakh as financial assistance to the bereaved family.
Speaking at the site, CM Atishi remarked, “The BJP-led Central Government has only one job in Delhi – to maintain law and order, but it has completely failed at it. Shootings, extortion, and murders have become everyday occurrences in the city, yet Home Minister Amit Shah is busy with election rallies.”
She added, “The Home Minister must stop engaging in politics and focus on his responsibility to ensure Delhi’s safety. His failure has turned Delhi into a crime capital. Criminals no longer fear the law; they believe they can commit crimes openly, and the police will do nothing.”
CM Atishi compared Delhi’s deteriorating law and order situation to the 1990s Mumbai underworld. She said, “The state of law and order in the national capital today resembles the reign of gangsters in 1990s Mumbai. Incidents like shootings in Rajouri Garden and Nangloi, policemen losing their lives while on duty, and gunfire outside showrooms and residential areas like Welcome highlight the alarming rise in crime across Delhi.”
CM Atishi added, “The family of the victim in Sundar Nagri says that the real culprits – local gangsters involved in all kinds of crimes – are still at large. The two people who have been arrested surrendered themselves, but the police have taken no action against the main accused.”
She directly addressed Home Minister Amit Shah, saying, “When Delhi’s law and order is your responsibility, why are you doing nothing to fix it? While crimes like extortion and murder are becoming routine, the Home Minister is busy with election campaigns in Haryana, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra. Meanwhile, in Delhi, a 28-year-old man is stabbed to death in broad daylight.”
She urged the BJP to fulfill its only responsibility in Delhi: “The BJP-led Central Government has just one job here – to maintain law and order and ensure public safety. But it has failed miserably.”
In a tweet, CM Atishi stated, “A 28-year-old man was brutally murdered in Sundar Nagri for opposing harassment. I met his family today and assured them ₹10 lakh assistance from the Delhi Government. The BJP-led Central Government has failed to maintain law and order in Delhi, where shootings, extortion, and murders are now routine. Instead of focusing on elections, Home Minister Amit Shah must fulfill his responsibility to ensure the safety of Delhi’s citizens.”
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*Cabinet Minister Imran Hussain visits Forever event Exhibition organized by Fatima Academy and encourages women entrepreneurs*
*Entrepreneurship can empower women to be self-reliant, they can become job providers: Imran Hussain*
*Exhibition conducted by Fatima Academy in walled city area has further strengthened their mission of supporting ‘vocal for local’ and community talent: Imran Hussain*
*DSEU, Women Works Programme initiatives to create opportunities for women's entrepreneurship is highly beneficial, enabling housewives and other women to become self-reliant: Imran Hussain*
NEW DELHI:20.11.24-Delhi Cabinet Minister and MLA from Ballimaran Imran Hussain visited the Forever Event Exhibition organized by Fatima Academy at Faiz Hall, Katra Dina Baig, Lal Quan, Delhi. The event features women empowerment with a diverse range of products, including jewelry, Indian & Foreign Suits, Cosmetics, Handmade Articles & jewelry, Bags, Live Calligraphy, Stationery, Daily use items and many more.
On this occasion, Minister Imran Hussain said that this vibrant event was made possible with the generous support of Fatima Academy, whose contribution has played a key role in providing the platform for local artists, designers, and business women to connect with the community. Their commitment to promote education and cultural initiatives in the walled city area is commendable, and their partnership in this event further has strengthened their mission of supporting ‘Vocal for Local’ and community talent.
The Minister also overviewed the exhibition and expressed that women entrepreneurship played an important role in empowering women from all sections of society, helping them become self-reliant job creators, and overcome traditional stereotypes. Sh. Imran Hussain emphasized that women have boundless aspirations and determination to pursue and achieve their dreams, requiring only confidence and support to propel their progress.
The Delhi Minister also informed that the Women Works Programme of Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University (DSEU) creates opportunities for women's entrepreneurship which is highly beneficial, enabling housewives and other women to become self-reliant.
Minister Imran Hussain lauded the efforts of organizers of the event, Ajaz Noor, Mohd Javed, and Farzana who have provided a good platform to local women entrepreneurs. Organizers dedication and Organizational skills ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants and visitors. The entire team of organizers, influencers, and participants deserves congratulations for making the Forever Event Exhibition a memorable and impactful event for the Society.
The Minister also presented the appreciation certificate to the successful women entrepreneurs for their active participation.
The Forever Event Exhibition was an incredible success, combining shopping, cultural displays, fashion shows, food stalls, and interactive games to create a fun and inclusive atmosphere. The event not only has helped boost local businesses but also has fostered a sense of unity and pride among the attendees.