The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is taking a significant step toward sustainability by planning to install rooftop solar panels on nearly 1,000 of its buildings. This initiative marks an effort to promote renewable energy and reduce the carbon footprint of the city.
The ambitious project aims to harness solar energy across municipal properties, including schools, offices, and community facilities. By utilizing these rooftops for solar panel installation, MCD seeks to generate clean energy that will not only meet part of the buildings’ energy needs but also contribute to broader environmental goals.
This initiative aligns with the global trend of utilizing rooftops as spaces for solar power generation, offering a dual benefit: reducing electricity costs and decreasing reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The solar panels will be installed under a RESCO (Renewable Energy Service Company) model. This model involves a third-party investor (NVVN – NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited) setting up and maintaining the solar systems, enabling MCD to purchase via tariffs the generated power at a lower rate than conventional sources without bearing upfront installation costs.
MCD already has 574 solar photovoltaic (PV) plants installed on its buildings. An agreement between 2022 and 2024 with NVVN led to the commissioning of 26 rooftop plants.
The project reflects Delhi’s commitment to sustainability and support for innovative energy solutions. It is anticipated that the clean energy generated will alleviate some pressure on the city’s power grid, especially during peak demand times. The reduction in electricity costs can also lead to significant savings for the municipal body, which can be redeployed toward other essential services.
MCD’s venture is part of a larger push by cities globally to integrate more sustainable practices into urban management. By spearheading this solar installation project, MCD sets a precedent that others may follow, demonstrating how urban spaces can contribute to renewable energy production.
This initiative is a critical component of the city’s broader environmental strategy, which includes reducing pollution levels and promoting sustainable practices across various sectors. The implementation of solar panels on such a large scale illustrates a pivotal move toward cleaner, greener urban living.
As the project rolls out, it will also provide opportunities for local employment in the installation and maintenance of solar infrastructure, further benefiting the community economically. By investing in renewable energy, MCD is contributing to a healthier environment and more sustainable future for residents.
This bold move not only outlines Delhi’s commitment to climate action but also encourages other municipalities to consider similar strategies for integrating renewable energy solutions within their jurisdictions, furthering the global effort to combat climate change.
Source: MCD to install rooftop solar panels on nearly 1,000 buildings
