Experts have suggested that instead of focusing too much on the domestic sector in the initial leg, the Delhi government should initially focus on commercial and industrial consumers on a priority basis as given the existing cost of solar power (approx Rs. 6 per unit) majority households would find it an unviable proposition.
According to Pramod Deo, former chairperson of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), solar power generation makes sense for those who consume around 5,000 to 10,000 units. “Industries and commercial consumers in Delhi would be tremendously benefited as they would not have to buy expensive power from the usual thermal plants. Government buildings should also be simultaneously pursued,” Mr. Deo said.
Acknowledging the point, the Delhi government has stated that its solar policy will make it mandatory for all government roof-tops to install solar systems within a time frame of three years. “All government buildings with a minimum shadow-free roof-top area of 50 sq. metre will have to generate 5 kW or 15 per cent of the sanctioned load. Besides, installation shall be must with net metering on 50 per cent of shadow-free roof-top area in buildings completed after September 1, 2015. For commercial roof-tops the area is 500 sq. metre and for residential it is 300 sq. metre,” said a government official.
In Delhi, many households live in multi-storeyed buildings with multiple power connections. In such a case, sharing of terrace and solar power will be an issue, he said.
Adding to this, power expert Subhash Sethi said, “If anybody in the domestic category could install solar power, it would be the high-end consumers. In that also, many would not prefer to part with their terraces which they otherwise use for personal purposes. For residents who pay Rs. 2 per unit, or even Rs. 7.30, installation of solar panels would be an additional expenditure.”
Another sticky point is also that the implementation part of the solar policy will lie with the municipal corporations which are responsible for building bylaws. “How swiftly people get the necessary approvals is a matter which is to be seen. Enthusiastic people should not be bogged down by the numerous formalities,” said Mr Deo.