Delhi plans 30 MW canal top solar project on Najafgarh Drain

The Delhi government plans to develop a 30 MW canal top solar power project on the 51 km Najafgarh Drain using the public-private partnership (PPP) model.

In Phase I, solar panels will be installed over six pockets along a 6 km stretch between Dhansa border and Ghummanhera to generate 5 MW of power. The electricity will be sold to Delhi’s distribution companies (DISCOMs).

The initiative is part of Delhi’s broader push to use urban waterways for clean energy generation. Similar solar projects are also being considered along the Barapullah and Agra canals.

The Delhi Cabinet has approved additional subsidies to promote rooftop solar adoption in the state. Households installing 3 kW solar panels will now receive a total subsidy of Rs 1,08,000. This includes Rs 78,000 from the Central Government and an additional Rs 30,000 from the Delhi Government. For 1 kW systems, a subsidy of Rs 10,000 will be provided.

In a related initiative, the Delhi Vidhan Sabha is also set to be solar-powered. The foundation stone has been laid for a 500 kW solar power plant at the Assembly premises.

These steps aim to reduce reliance on grid power and encourage clean energy adoption across residential and government buildings in Delhi.